Memorial service for 14 children killed in the Vanderbijlpark crash
Sheryl Maphalla(L) mother to deceased grade 11 learner at EL-Shaddai Christian school Puleng Maphalla, 17, mournes the death of her daughter surrounded by her aunt Mariam Molefe.
Image: Itumeleng English/Independent Newspapers
GRIEF and anger continue to resonate among families affected by the death of 14 pupils in a crash involving a private scholar transport driver, Ayanda Dludla, 22.
A memorial service took place at the Saul Tsotetsi Sports Ground Hall in Sebokeng on Friday, with Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and members of the provincial executive council in attendance.
The crash, which occurred on Monday, January 19, has sent shockwaves throughout Gauteng, reigniting concerns about safety in the private scholar transport sector. The Gauteng Education Transport Services (GETS) confirmed that Dludla was operating a minibus under their association and had previously faced complaints regarding his reckless driving.
GETS chairperson Matthews Mokhachane made a statement outside the Vanderbijlpark Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, where 22-year-old Ayanda Dludla, the scholar transport driver made his first court appearance.
He faces 14 counts of murder and three counts of attempted murder following the collision between the scholar transport vehicle and a truck. Dludla has abandoned his bail application and is scheduled to return to court on March 5.
On Thursday, Motiki Maphalla, the grandfather of Puleng Maphalla, 17, a Grade 11 learner at El Shaddai Christian School who tragically lost her life in the crash, described her as a "humble and devoted child."
"She woke up around 5 am, bathed, and prepared for school. Her father was upset because the taxi was five minutes late. It was a Monday, the second week of school, and he was worried she would be late," said Maphalla.
"Soon after, the taxi arrived and she left. That was the last time we saw her alive." He added.
"From the information I received, he usually picks the children up for school, but it seems there was someone before him. I do not know what happened. I also did not know he was that young."
The family chose not to attend court proceedings, focusing instead on funeral arrangements to avoid further emotional distress.
"We were not interested in going to court just to see him," Maphalla said.
"It would raise emotions. We are still angry about what happened, so it is better to keep to ourselves."
On Thursday, Gauteng police confirmed that two more learners succumbed to their injuries, bringing the total fatalities to 14. Police reported that Dludla was arrested on Tuesday after being discharged from the hospital, where he had been receiving treatment following the crash.
A mass funeral for the victims is expected to be held on Sunday, January 25, at the Saul Tsotetsi Sports Ground in Sebokeng.