12 pupils have lost their lives during a tragic incident that happened on the old Golden Highway this morning.

This comes after a private school transport collided with a truck, leaving five fighting for their lives reports the Sedibeng Ster.

According to information at the publication’s disposal, the driver of the taxi allegedly tried to overtake other vehicles heading towards Vanderbijlpark.

Police and other role players were on the scene as they tried to retrieve bodies trapped inside the taxi.

Dozens of other scholar taxi drivers, together with devastated parents and relatives, have gathered as they wait to identify their children.

Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane, confirmed in a media statement that 12 learners had passed away, while three learners sustained critical injuries and were being treaded at local hospitals.

The Witness reports Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube expressed concern following the tragedy, saying the incident once again highlights the dangers faced by pupils on their daily commute to school.

Gwarube said engagements with the Department of Transport had revealed that while the roadworthiness of scholar transport vehicles remains important, driver error continues to be the leading cause of fatal crashes involving pupils.

She stressed that drivers entrusted with transporting children carry an enormous responsibility.

“Those who transport our children must exercise greater diligence and accountability. The safety of learners must always come first,” the minister said.

This is a developing story.

Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel.

Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal.