5 schoolkids have died in a crash in Mitchells Plain this morning. This has been confirmed by the Western Cape Education Department. The crash happened on AZ Berman Drive, around 7.30 am. Another child has been hospitalized and is in a serious condition.

5 learners die in horror crash

Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has expressed the City’s deepest condolences to the families of the children who lost their lives in the fatal crash this morning. A light delivery vehicle, minibus taxi and Golden Arrow Bus collision led to the tragic deaths of several scholars on their way to school.

‘Our City mourns together with the families of scholars who died in the fatal crash in Mitchells Plain this morning. This is a terrible, dark day in our city. As a parent, my heart breaks for those who will not see their children return home from school today. While it can never restore the lives so tragically taken, we trust that authorities will establish the full facts surrounding this incident so that there may be accountability for any wrongdoing,’ said Mayor Hill-Lewis.

Meanwhile, the MEC of Mobility Ricardo Mackenzie has indicated that he will visit the crash site.

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Mackenzie also expressed his anger, after hearing reports that the children had been flung from the vehicle they were being transported in.

“My deepest condolences to the families that have to deal with the grief of losing their loved ones this morning. May God comfort you during this very difficult time. How many more school children must we lose on our roads before the transportation of children is taken seriously by these transport operators?” said Mackenzie.

He added that anyone transporting passengers, especially children, has a weighted responsibility to keep them safe.

5 schoolkids die in crash

The MEC reiterated that all vehicles must be roadworthy and must have a permit. Drivers must also obey the rules of the road.

At the same time, Mitchell’s Plain Police have registered a culpable homicide case, following the fatal crash.

Mitchell’s Plain accident claims lives of 5 schoolkids

Sergeant Wesley Twigg says the circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation.

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He added that anyone with information about the incident should contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

The Provincial Education Department has released some guidelines on their website, regarding scholar transport.

Vehicles used for learner transport must:

• be less than 12 years old,
• be registered and licensed in the Western Cape,
• be tested at a roadworthy centre every 6 months,
• have a valid operating licence,
• have a special vehicle fitness certificate,
• clearly stipulate the number of passengers allowed in the vehicle,
• have a seatbelt for every child and a car seat for those younger than 3 years old,
• be clearly marked as a “scholar transport” vehicle,
• have a fire extinguisher and first aid kit,
• have a passenger list of all of the children who are being transported, and
• have copies of each child’s birth certificate or identity document (ID) in case of an accident.