POLOKWANE – The Mankweng police will investigate a case of culpable homicide following the death of a six-year-old learner who was hit by a scholar transport bus in Ga-Molepo’s Laastehoop village on Friday (October 24).

Read more: Gr R learner killed after being hit by scholar transport bus in Ga-Molepo

According to police reports, a male driver (34) was collecting learners for transport to a nearby primary school at around 07:00 when the tragedy occurred.

The Limpopo police spokesperson, Col Malesela Ledwaba said the driver allegedly stopped near a spaza shop where several learners were waiting.

“As they began pushing each other while preparing to board, the driver attempted to park the bus and accidentally drove over the young girl. Emergency services and police were called to the scene, but the child was declared dead on arrival,” his statement read.

The learner has since been positively identified by her family.

The incident has sparked renewed calls for stricter scholar transport safety measures in rural areas.

Meanwhile, on Friday, the Department of Education said it is awaiting a detailed report on the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Education MEC Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya conveyed her condolences to the bereaved family, the school, and the community.

The department urged scholar transport operators to exercise extreme caution when transporting learners and to ensure proper supervision during boarding and drop-off times.