Calls for accountability rise after Vanderbijlpark crash death, driver in custody

Condolences are pouring in from across South Africa following the tragic scholar transport accident in Vanderbijlpark, Gauteng, that claimed the lives of twelve learners, as political parties, civil society, unions, and faith-based organisations simultaneously call for accountability and urgent action to prevent similar tragedies.

The accident, which was put the focus on scholar transport safety, occurred along Fred Droste Road near Vanderbijlpark on Monday morning while learners were travelling to school, just three days after schools reopened for the 2026 academic year. Some learners sustained critical injuries and remain hospitalised.

It was reported from the scene that 11 learners had died however the Gauteng Department of Education had reported late on Monday night that the death toll had risen to 13.

But the Gauteng Health department clarified in a statement on Tuesday that 12 learners had died. 

The department also said the scholar transport driver had been released from hospital and had been taken into custody by the South African Police Service. It is alleged that the scholar transport driver had tried to overtake several vehicles when the minibus taxi crashed into a truck.

It was also reported on Monday that there are questions around whether the 22-year-old driver had a professional driving permit (PDP) and there are allegations that the driver had been reprimanded previously for reckless driving.

The health department also urged the public to refrain from speculating on the matter. It said 11 of the bodies had been identified by their families with the 12th awaiting verification.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng has expressed its sorrow following the incident. In a statement, DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Education Sergio Isa Dos Santos MPL said the party was “deeply saddened by the tragic accident”.

The DA added that “all circumstances surrounding this tragedy must be fully examined so that families can receive clear answers,” while emphasising that “learner safety must remain a top priority.”

The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) called for urgent accountability and a comprehensive investigation into the crash, which reportedly involved a scholar transport minibus and a truck.

“The IFP urges law enforcement authorities to establish, without delay, whether the minibus was roadworthy, legally compliant, and fit to transport learners,” the party said. The IFP warned that “lives are lost when profit is placed above safety,” adding that such accidents are “preventable tragedies that point to systemic weaknesses which demand decisive action.”

Faith-based organisations have also joined the national response.

The South African Community of Faith-Based Fraternals & Federations (SACOFF) described the incident as “a national wound” and expressed “profound sorrow, heartbreak, and solidarity with the families, schools, and communities affected.” SACOFF President Pastor Bert Pretorius said: “The death of even one child is a tragedy beyond words. The loss of thirteen young learners is a national calamity that should move every South African to deep reflection and urgent action.”

SACOFF called for a full and transparent investigation, a national review of scholar transport systems, accountability where negligence is found, and psychosocial support for affected families and communities. The organisation also urged churches and faith communities to hold moments of prayer and remembrance and to offer practical support to those affected.

As investigations continue, stakeholders across the political, civil, labour, and faith sectors have reiterated their calls for accountability, improved enforcement of scholar transport regulations, and decisive action to ensure the safety of learners on South Africa’s roads.

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