Seven-seater scholar transport caught with 22 learners

Traffic officers intercepted a seven-seater minibus that was found to be grossly overloaded, transporting 22 learners in the Ladanna area in Polokwane, Limpopo on Wednesday morning.

Upon noticing traffic enforcement, the driver reportedly abandoned the vehicle and fled the scene on foot, leaving the learners unattended. At the time of the incident, the learners were on their way to school.

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The Department of Transport and Community Safety has condemned what they call a reckless driving Incident Involving Scholar Transport in Polokwane.

“The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety is appalled by the reckless behaviour of a driver who overloaded a 7-seater minibus with 22 learners, putting their lives at risk,” said department spokesperson Matome Taueatsoala.

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“This incident is a stark reminder of the importance of prioritising road safety, especially when transporting learners. Overloading is not only a serious offence but also a recipe for disaster. We urge parents, drivers, and operators to take responsibility for the safety of our children and passengers,” he said.

“The Department will not tolerate such reckless behaviour and will continue to work with law enforcement agencies to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

“We appeal to the public to report any suspicious or unsafe vehicles to the authorities on *0800 006 694.”