Media Statement
South African Police Service
Office of the Provincial Commissioner Gauteng

PARKTOWN - The police have arrested the 22-year-old scholar transport driver who was involved in an accident that claimed the lives of 12 learners in Vanderbijlpark on Monday, 19 January 2026.  He was arrested after he was discharged from hospital. He is expected to appear before Vanderbijlpark Magistrates' Court within 48 hours, facing charges of twelve counts of culpable homicide and reckless and negligent driving.

After the police visited the hospitals and the mortuary to verify the number of fatalities and injuries, it can be confirmed that twelve learners died at the accident scene and five were taken to the nearest hospitals for medical treatment, of which one has since been discharged.

The driver of the truck that was involved in the accident escaped unharmed while the passenger sustained injuries and was receiving treatment in hospital.

Investigations are underway as police continue to obtain witness statements.

Ends

Enquiries:
Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo
071 608 5490

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