Authorities have launched an investigation after a bus travelling from Cape Town to Johannesburg overturned near Trompsburg in the Free State, killing 12 people, including children, and injuring 66 others on Thursday night.

Emergency services rushed to the scene where the injured were treated before being taken to nearby medical facilities.

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) spokesperson Simon Zwane says its specialised crash investigation team is working to determine what led to the tragedy.

“Preliminary investigations are underway, and no conclusions will be drawn until all evidence has been examined. We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives and wish a speedy recovery to all those injured.”

 

The RTMC has also appealed to motorists travelling through the area to be patient and follow all instructions from traffic and law enforcement officials.