A school trip for Mutumba Primary School learners in the Vhembe district of Limpopo ended in tragedy.

According to Education Department spokesperson Mike Maringa, the incident occurred on the N1 near Nzhelele in the Vhembe district.

“Three of the learners unfortunately died when the bus they were travelling in collided into the back of another bus. Another 20 learners sustained minor injuries and were taken to a local hospital,” Maringa explained.

Education MEC Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya sent her condolences to the families.

“We woke to the sad news of a bus crash that claimed the lives of three learners on the N1 outside Louis Trichardt. I share in the pain that parents of the deceased learners are going through. I don’t think there is any pain that surpasses losing a child, especially at the tender age when you still expect a lot from them. We will work with all the stakeholders to ensure that they are afforded all the necessary assistance,” Lerule-Ramakhanya added.

Transport Department spokesperson Tidimalo Chuene confirmed the incident.

“Our officers on the scene cited reckless driving and negligence as a possible cause for the crash. We send our condolences and take this opportunity to remind motorists to drive with caution to avoid such incidents.”