Polokwane – Limpopo police and traffic officers intercepted a heavily overloaded 65-seat cross-border bus on the N1 bypass near Peter Mokaba Stadium on Thursday, December 18, 2025, after observing it was severely overcrowded.
The vehicle carried 117 occupants total — 1 driver, 101 adult passengers, and 15 minors — exceeding its legal capacity by 52 passengers, as it traveled from Gauteng toward Malawi.
While being redirected to the Provincial Traffic Control Centre (PTCC) near the Polokwane weighbridge, the bus became immobilised, allowing officers to conduct a full count, Arrive alive reported.
Heavily overloaded cross-border bus stopped on the N1 , Polokwane
The vehicle was carrying *117 occupants* – 1 driver, 101 passengers and 15 minors – *52 passengers beyond its legal capacity*.https://t.co/FExmMERV7Y#ArriveAlive #PassengerSafety @TransportLimCom @TrafficRTMC pic.twitter.com/98gde33LNd
— Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) December 18, 2025
The driver attempted to flee on foot during the stop but was quickly apprehended and arrested by South African Police Service (SAPS) members and Limpopo traffic officers.
The incident was issued by the Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety via Arrive Alive. It underscores ongoing enforcement against overloading, which has led to recent crackdowns amid safety concerns on major routes.
[WATCH] Traffic officers stopped a cross-border bus on the N1 near Peter Mokaba Stadium after discovering a severe overload. The 65-seater was carrying 117 occupants, including 15 minors, on a trip from Gauteng to Malawi. pic.twitter.com/kX2fe4eoTp
— Anastasi Mokgobu (@AnastasiMokgobu) December 18, 2025
According to The Citizen, Authorities impounded the bus until excess passengers are removed and fines paid, urging operators to prioritise roadworthiness to avoid repeats of the October Makhado crash that killed 43.
“Overloading is dangerous. We do not want a repeat of that. We are calling on bus companies to cooperate with us. Make sure that your buses are roadworthy and fit to be on the road,” Limpopo provincial government spokesperson Matome Taueatsoalasaid.
“The bus will remain at the traffic centre until the excess passengers are removed and the prescribed fine is settled. Further investigations are underway.”
Limpopo officials continue investigations and inspections.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
