The death toll from a devastating bus crash on the N2 highway along the KZN north coast has risen to nine, transport authorities confirmed.
Officials believe a tyre blowout caused the 82-seater bus to veer off the road between Mandeni and KwaDukuza on Sunday afternoon, plunging down a steep embankment. Among the victims was a four-year-old child.
Provincial spokesperson Ndabezinhle Sibiya stated that the bus was transporting members of the Twelve Apostles Church in Trinity from Richards Bay and Shakaskraal.
“This tragedy has occurred just as we were finalizing our road safety plans for the upcoming Easter holidays,” said Sibiya.
Authorities extended their condolences to the victims' families. The MEC, along with a newly appointed chaplain, will visit the bereaved families to offer support.
An investigation into the cause of the crash is underway.