Vanderbijlpark scholar transport crash case postponed to March

The case of a scholar transport driver linked to a deadly crash in Vanderbijlpark has been postponed to 5 March. The matter was heard in a local magistrate’s court south of Johannesburg on Monday.

The accused is 22-year-old Ayanda Dludlu. He faces 14 counts of murder. He also faces three counts of attempted murder. In addition, he faces charges of driving without a valid permit and operating an unlicensed vehicle.

The charges follow a tragic crash that happened on Monday morning. Dludlu was driving a scholar transport vehicle at the time. The vehicle collided with a truck along a busy road in Vanderbijlpark.

As a result, fourteen learners lost their lives. Several others suffered injuries. Emergency services rushed to the scene within minutes. Paramedics worked to rescue trapped learners. Sadly, some learners died at the scene.

Meanwhile, three learners survived with injuries. Ambulances transported them to nearby hospitals for treatment. Doctors later confirmed that their injuries were serious but stable.

Dludlu appeared briefly before the court. The state requested a postponement. Prosecutors said they needed more time to complete investigations. They also needed to verify documents linked to the vehicle and the driver.
The magistrate agreed with the request. The court then postponed the matter to 5 March. Dludlu remains in custody. The court did not discuss bail during the appearance.

Police investigations revealed several violations. Authorities confirmed that the scholar transport vehicle did not have a valid operating permit. Officials also confirmed that the vehicle was not licensed to transport learners.
In addition, Dludlu allegedly drove without the required permit. These findings form part of the state’s case.

Meanwhile, families of the deceased learners continue to mourn. Community members gathered at homes and schools to offer support. Many residents described the loss as devastating.
At the same time, education officials deployed trauma counselors to affected schools. These teams are helping learners and teachers cope with the tragedy.

Transport authorities warned against illegal scholar transport services. They urged parents to verify permits before using private transport. Officials stressed that learner safety must remain a priority.

Investigations into the crash continue. More details may emerge as the case progresses.
Dludlu is expected to return to court on 5 March.

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