KwaZulu-Natal authorities have confirmed that the death toll from the devastating bus crash along the N2 between Mandeni and Stanger has risen to nine, following an extensive search and rescue operation.
The rescue mission, which involved multiple emergency response teams, concluded late on Sunday night. KZN Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma announced that the operation officially ended at 11:30 PM, confirming that no victims remained trapped in the wreckage.
“The complicated rescue operation was completed at 23:30, and there was no victim left behind in the wreckage,” said Duma.
The tragic accident occurred on Sunday, March 9, 2025, when a bus carrying church members from Richards Bay to Shakaskraal suffered a tire blowout, causing it to lose control and roll approximately 100 meters down an embankment. The passengers were members of the Twelve Apostles Church in Trinity from Ward 28 in KwaDukuza Local Municipality.
Initially, reports from the scene indicated that eight people had lost their lives. However, as search and rescue teams continued their work, the toll increased to nine overnight.
The large-scale operation involved multiple agencies, including the KZN Road Traffic Inspectorate, local traffic departments, fire and disaster response teams from Mandeni and KwaDukuza, as well as the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Rescue workers faced challenging conditions due to the difficult terrain and the severity of the crash, but their efforts ensured that all victims were accounted for.
Authorities are now investigating the exact circumstances surrounding the crash, particularly focusing on the condition of the bus and whether mechanical failure played a role. The incident has once again highlighted concerns about road safety, especially for long-distance passenger transport.
As the affected families mourn their loved ones, officials have urged motorists and transport operators to prioritize vehicle maintenance and adhere to strict safety regulations.
