Durban – A bus accident has resulted in injuries to at least 22 members of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP).
The IFP supporters were traveling from Gauteng to Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) for the party’s 50th anniversary celebrations when their bus overturned on the R34 close to Vryheid.
Fortunately, there were no fatalities, although three passengers did suffer serious injuries that necessitated hospitalization.
Emergency services quickly arrived on the scene to assist those who were injured.
In a statement issued from the Marriahill Toll Plaza on Sunday (23 March 2025), KZN Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma expressed sadness over the incident, saying: “As the long weekend comes to a close, I have received notifications from our dedicated Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) team regarding a bus accident on the R34 near Vryheid.”
He noted that the accident occurred between 06:00 and 06:30 on Sunday morning.
“According to RTI, the bus carrying IFP supporters, operated by Sun Coaches Bus Company, has overturned. The preliminary report received at 09:30 indicates that the driver was speeding, and we will not show him any leniency,” he remarked.
“We aim to set a precedent to ensure a clear message: Alufakwa KwaZulu-Natal – there is zero tolerance for such behavior in KwaZulu-Natal.”
From the bus accident, MEC Duma provided the following medical codes:
- 🔵 No Blue Code – Thankfully, there are currently no fatalities among the passengers.
- 🔴 3 x Red Code – Passengers are critically injured with a potential risk of death due to their injuries.
- 🟡 8 x Yellow Code – Passengers are seriously injured.
- 🟢 11 x Green Code – Injured passengers who are able to walk.
Meanwhile, IFP supporters have gathered at the Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi Regional Stadium for the party’s 50th anniversary celebrations.
Referring to another road incident, MEC Duma noted: “Last night, we received unfortunate reports from RTI regarding a head-on collision on the R61 near Wild Coast Sun on the South Coast.”
“Regrettably, three individuals lost their lives in that tragic accident. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families.”
MEC Duma also reported that one person sustained critical injuries, while three others are receiving medical treatment.
“Preliminary information indicates that a VW vehicle and a Toyota Tazz were racing, which resulted in a head-on collision with a Toyota Yaris,” stated MEC Duma.
“The road remained closed for three hours. I have directed the RTI to take stringent measures against reckless driving and speeding.”
“We are currently conducting a roadblock at the Marriahill Toll Plaza.”
“This morning, we observe a significant number of vehicles departing Durban and KZN for other provinces.”
“During this long weekend, we experienced a substantial increase in traffic volume to KZN, especially in Durban, with over 1,000 vehicles recorded per hour on Thursday and Friday afternoons.”
