POLICE INVESTIGATE CULPABLE HOMICIDE CASE AFTER TWO CHILDREN DIE IN MINIBUS-TAXI FIRE IN MASEMOLA
POLOKWANE: Police in Masemola under the Sekhukhune District have opened two counts of culpable homicide following a tragic incident in which two school children lost their lives after a minibus taxi caught fire and burned on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, at about 15:15.
The incident occurred along the Apel Cross Road via the Tswaing gravel road towards Nkotwokwane village.
It is alleged that a Toyota Quantum minibus taxi was transporting plus/minus 22 school children between the ages of 7 and 10 years, together with the driver, from school to their respective homes when the vehicle allegedly burst into flames while travelling on the gravel road.
The exact cause of the fire is still unknown at this stage.
Two children died at the scene inside the burning minibus and their identities are yet to be confirmed as investigations unfold. Seven (07) other children sustained injuries and were transported to a local hospital for medical treatment, while thirteen (13) children survived the incident without injuries.
The driver, aged 44, was arrested for two counts of culpable homicide and contravention of the National Road Traffic Act relating to overloading and failure to produce an operating certificate.
He is expected to appear before the Nebo Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 15 May 2026.
The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has expressed shock and sadness following the tragic incident and conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.
“We are deeply saddened by this heartbreaking incident involving young school children. We wish to extend our sincere condolences to the families of the deceased and wish those receiving medical treatment a speedy recovery. Police investigations will determine the cause of the incident,” said Lieutenant General Hadebe.
More charges may be added as police investigations continue.
