Emergency responders assist injured pupils following a head-on collision involving a scholar transport bus on the R510 in Limpopo. Picture Credit: The Namibian
By Aisha Zardad
Limpopo — A head-on collision on the R510 near Amanda Mine between Thabazimbi and Northam in Limpopo on the morning of Thursday, January 22, 2026, has claimed the life of one man and left 109 schoolchildren injured, authorities said. Preliminary investigations point to reckless overtaking by a Toyota Hilux bakkie as the likely cause of the crash, according to the Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety.
The crash occurred at about 6:10 am when the bakkie and a Volkswagen bus carrying learners collided head-on, departmental spokesperson Matome Taueatsoala said. The 58-year-old male driver of the Hilux was fatally injured at the scene. All 109 passengers — schoolchildren on their way to school — suffered minor injuries.
Most of the injured pupils were taken to Thabazimbi Provincial Hospital, while six were transported to Amandelbult Mine Hospital for further care, Taueatsoala added.
Police and transport officials are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the crash, with reckless driving and overtaking cited as possible contributing factors. The department extended condolences to the family of the deceased driver and urged all road users to adhere strictly to traffic rules, particularly when transporting children.
Following the collision, authorities also noted a recent law enforcement operation in Ladanna, Polokwane, where 11 scholar transport vehicles were impounded for failing to meet permit, roadworthiness and safety requirements. Taueatsoala reiterated that the safety of learners is a non-negotiable priority and warned operators that non-compliance will result in decisive action.
