Ten killed in Western Cape bus crash

Ten people were killed on Monday when a bus crashed on Van Rhyns Pass in the Western Cape.

Police spokesperson W/O Joseph Swartbooi said the bus was carrying seasonal workers from Keimoes to Ceres.

“Police members and emergency personnel were dispatched to the scene where they were involved in the rescue operation,” said Swartbooi.

“We confirm 29 victims were transported to nearby hospitals and 10 were declared deceased at the scene.”

Van Rhynsdorp police are investigating a case of culpable homicide.

Executive director of the Rural and Farmworkers Development Organisation Billy Claasen said they were mourning the deaths of the farmworkers who were from several towns in the Northern Cape.

“We convey our heartfelt thoughts and condolences to the families, friends, colleagues and the [injured] farm workers,” he said.

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) said a team of investigators was on site to investigate the cause of the crash.

“The crash occurred when the driver of a passenger bus transporting 42 occupants allegedly lost control and crashed into the side of a mountain before rolling down a slope,” said RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane.

Provincial mobility MEC Isaac Sileku told SABC News the passengers were construction workers from Upington on their way to work at a solar plant.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in this devastating incident,” Sileku said later in an update on the crash.

The provincial department of health and wellness said 39 passengers were assessed on site while 10 fatalities were reported. “In the aftermath of the crash, staff from the Western Cape department of social development (DSD) were activated to assess whether there was a need for psychosocial support services,” said social development MEC Jaco Londt.

“We will work with the SAPS and the department of health and wellness to provide support such as trauma debriefing should it be required. Since many of the affected are from the Northern Cape, we are liaising with DSD colleagues in that province who will also provide support services to the victims and their families and loved ones.” 

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