Amsterdam, Mpumalanga – Five people were killed and multiple passengers injured when a Greyhound intercity bus overturned on the R33 road between Amsterdam and Piet Retief in Mpumalanga on Monday afternoon.
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) confirmed that the crash occurred at approximately 4pm. According to RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane, the driver lost control of the bus, causing the vehicle to leave the roadway and roll over.
Five passengers died at the scene or shortly after the accident. Six passengers sustained serious injuries and were taken to hospital for urgent medical treatment. An additional 26 passengers suffered minor injuries and received medical attention.
Emergency services, including paramedics, fire and rescue teams, and traffic officers, responded to the scene to assist the injured and secure the area.
The exact cause of the driver losing control remains under investigation by traffic authorities and the South African Police Service. No further details about the circumstances leading to the loss of control have been released at this stage.
The R33 road was closed for several hours following the crash to allow for recovery operations and scene examination.
Greyhound has not yet issued a public statement regarding the incident.
This is the latest in a series of serious bus accidents on South African roads in recent months, highlighting ongoing concerns about road safety on long-distance routes. Authorities have urged drivers and transport operators to exercise extra caution, particularly during the busy festive season travel period.
