By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Limpopo MEC of transport and community safety Florence Radzilani says South African Police Service (Saps) is investigating the cause of a bus accident in which more than 20 people died in Musina.
Radzilani spoke at the scene of a horrific bus crash that killed 20 mineworkers in Musina on Sunday.
The death toll has since climbed to 22.
The bus was transporting workers from the Venetia diamond mine when it collided with a heavy-duty truck before bursting into flames.
Radzilani said they are yet to receive the full report to determine the cause of the accident.
“We have established allegations that the truck driver did not have a driver’s licence, and the truck was not roadworthy. We want to send a very strong message to those taking advantage by using bypass roads instead of proper roads.
“There are allegations that the driver was a foreign national. Foreigners must have valid documents for them to operate on our roads,” she said.
Radzilani said the police were investigating the incident and updates will be made once investigations are completed.
The Venetia mine, which lies near the borders with Botswana and Zimbabwe, has been run by the De Beers group for more than 30 years.
The bus was transporting workers to the Mine and the mineworkers were Murray and Roberts employees.
In a statement, Murray and Roberts said it would provide support to the families and colleagues of the deceased.
“The two vehicles caught alight and emergency services’ preliminary reports indicate that eighteen of the group’s employees, along with the driver of the other vehicle, sadly lost their lives, with four seriously injured and rushed to hospital,” said the company.
“We offer our deepest condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives, injured, and in any way impacted by this tragic accident. Our focus is on providing the necessary support to our employees and their families during this very difficult time.”
“The incident is under investigation and further details will be provided at a later stage.”