Limpopo — A devastating bus accident on the N1 near Ingwe Lodge outside Louis Trichardt has claimed the lives of 42 people, including seven children, authorities confirmed on Monday.
Several passengers remained trapped as rescue operations continue.
The long-distance bus, travelling from Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape to Harare, overturned on Sunday evening after reportedly losing control and rolling down an embankment.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene, with the vehicle lying on its side amid scattered luggage and debris.
#capitec #fnb#TravisScott
Guys check up on your families a bus was travelling from jhb to Harare. The accident happened in Louis mountains jus after ingwe curves!
It looks like Blue circle bus! pic.twitter.com/bzRsOWgz8s— Melgineous (@melgineous) October 12, 2025
Emergency services, including fire, medical, and police personnel, responded immediately, assisted on-site by Limpopo Transport MEC Violet Mathye.
Nighttime operations were particularly challenging, with rescue teams working under red emergency lights as cranes were used to move the severely damaged bus.
The N1 North remained closed between Louis Trichardt and Musina, and motorists are advised to use alternative routes via the Witvlag and Williespoort roads.
The death toll from yesterday’s tragic bus crash on the treacherous N1 road outside Louis Trichardt in Limpopo has risen to 42. Authorities have confirmed that all bodies have been recovered, while search and recovery operations continue at the scene.
Photos: Supplied pic.twitter.com/T1kzsfEVMf
— Ben Malubane (@Ben_Malubane) October 13, 2025
“The scene is still active as rescue and recovery operations continue,” provincial Transport Department spokesperson Matome Taueatsoala said.
“The cause of the accident is yet to be confirmed, and MEC Mathye is overseeing the response efforts.”
The tragedy has shocked communities along the N1 corridor, highlighting the dangers of long-distance travel on the highway. Officials have urged the public to adhere to road safety regulations while alternative routes remain in place.
Dozens of people have died in a horrific bus crash on the N1 near Makhado. The passengers, according to Limpopo Transport and Community Safety MEC Violet Susan Mathye, the passengers were on their way to Zimbabwe and Malawi. #TheSouthAfricanMorning #DStv403 #DStv194… pic.twitter.com/WhOIy2aC3L
— eNCA (@eNCA) October 13, 2025
Social media reports have shared images of the wreckage, showing overturned buses, emergency personnel, and scattered belongings across the scene.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims but confirmed that rescue operations are ongoing, and the injured are being transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Follow African Insider on Facebook, X and Instagram
Picture: X/@melgineous
For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
