VANDERBIJLPARK – Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi confirmed that the scholar minibus driver who was involved in the horrific accident that killed 12 pupils was operating with an expired Professional Driving Permit (PDP).
This was revealed during a media briefing held at the Sedibeng West District offices in Sebokeng today.

Lesufi, who was flanked by several government officials including Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube, Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane, Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, Roads and Transport MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, also confirmed that the 22-year-old driver was arrested after he was discharged from hospital.

Also in attendance were several mayors in the Sedibeng region, including Sedibeng District Executive Mayor Lerato Maloka, Midvaal’s Peter Teixiera and Emfuleni Executive Mayor Sipho Radebe.

The accident made national news following the tragic collision between the taxi and a truck, killing 12 and injuring scores of others.

“Police investigations have since confirmed that the taxi driver’s PDP expired in November last year. There were three drivers that were involved in this accident including two in the truck and one in the taxi. The truck driver immediately took himself to the hospital after the incident, as he was not seriously injured.

As I’m addressing you now, police can confirm that he made an appointment with them to give his full statement,” he said.

“The assisted truck driver was hospitalised and later discharged. The taxi driver was also hospitalised and later discharged. Through the work of law enforcement agencies, he was arrested, interviewed and the police have indicated he will appear in court soon,” he said.

Lesufi sent condolences to the families of the pupils, who received the visit from the abovementioned entourage.
“Our hearts are not only bleeding; we are reaching a stage where it is extremely difficult to contain our emotions. It has been a very difficult moment for all of us,” he said.