A toddler is among nine people who lost their lives in a bus crash on the N2 near Mandeni in KZN yesterday.

According to an article published by Zululand Observer, the deceased are reported to be members of the Twelve Apostles Church in Trinity, Ward 28, under KwaDukuza Municipality.

The 82-seater bus is reported to have been travelling to Shakaskraal when a tyre burst and the driver lost control, rolling 100m down a steep embankment.

An operation to locate all the victims of the crash was concluded at 23:00 last night, with the wreckage to be pulled up this morning.

Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma has extended condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased, and is reportedly set to visit the crash site today.

“This is the most difficult period for the Twelve Apostles Church in Trinity in KZN and South Africa as a whole.

“The department will be in touch with all families and the leadership of the church starting from today. We want to ensure the victims are given a dignified funeral.

“Importantly, we pray to God to shine His face on the families, relatives, church members and those who were injured,” said Duma.

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