SA authorities intercept Malawi bus with 90 passengers, only 25 listed

Limpopo – A bus travelling from Malawi to Johannesburg was intercepted on the N1 in Limpopo on Monday after authorities discovered it was allegedly overloaded with passengers.

The bus, which is certified to carry 70 passengers, was found transporting 90 people at the time of the stop, according to the Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety.

Officials also uncovered discrepancies in the passenger manifest, which reportedly reflected only 25 passengers on board.

The bus, certified to carry 70 passengers, was found transporting 90 people at the time of the stop. Alarmingly, the passenger manifest only reflected 25 passengers on board. @TransportLimCom https://t.co/KMbOaIQnYH

— Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) May 18, 2026

The incident prompted the involvement of the South African Police Service and Immigration Services.

Authorities are investigating possible violations relating to passenger safety, overloading and immigration compliance.

The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety said investigations into the incident are ongoing.