A devastating road accident occurred this morning on the D2296 Road between Karino and Mbombela, involving a Midi Bus, a bakkie, and an articulated truck, resulting in three fatalities.

The collision claimed the lives of both the driver and a passenger of the bakkie, as well as one student from the Midi Bus which was transporting learners to various schools in Mbombela. Additionally, twenty-seven individuals sustained injuries ranging from slight to serious and were promptly taken to nearby hospitals for medical attention. The injured include the Midi Bus driver and twenty-six learners.

The D2296 Road is presently closed to traffic due to the accident. Motorists traveling to and from Mbombela are advised to use the N4 Toll Road as an alternative route.

While the specific cause of the crash is still under investigation, initial reports suggest that unsafe overtaking may have contributed to the tragedy.

Jackie Macie, Mpumalanga’s Community Safety, Security and Liaison MEC, expressed his deep condolences to the families of those deceased and extended wishes for a swift recovery to those injured. The MEC also voiced his concern over the recent spike in accidents involving school learners, stating, “We cannot continue losing young innocent people on our roads due to recklessness. This must just come to an end.”

Further updates will be provided as investigations continue and more information becomes available.