Probe Finds Overloading and Faulty Brakes in Limpopo Bus Crash

The Ministry of Transport has released preliminary findings into the deadly bus crash on the N1 north that killed 43 people on Sunday.

According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), the bus, which was travelling to Zimbabwe, was severely overloaded, carrying 91 passengers in a vehicle designed to seat only 62. Investigators found that only five of the bus’ ten brakes were functional, while the trailer’s braking system was not working at all.

The investigation further revealed that the driver was speeding down a mountain pass, worsening the risks posed by the overloaded and unroadworthy vehicle.

The RTMC has been instructed to inspect the bus company’s entire fleet to determine roadworthiness and to assess the company’s accountability for the condition of its vehicles. Maintenance records, service history, and the roadworthy certificate of the bus will be scrutinised. The Anti-Corruption Unit will also examine which testing centre issued the roadworthy certificate.

Authorities will look into whether DNC coach depots operating in South Africa comply with safety standards, with compulsory inspections ordered at border posts for their fleet.

The final report on the crash is expected within 21 weeks.