JOHANNESBURG – Wits University is mourning the loss of seven students who were among nine people killed in a crash in Limpopo on Sunday.
Six other people, who are also believed to be Wits students, are in a serious condition in hospital.
The students, who were on their way to a church meeting, were travelling in a minibus taxi which struck the overturned trailer of a truck that was involved in an earlier accident and burst into flames.
The crash took place between Mookgophong and Mokopane.
“Unfortunately as they (the truck drivers) were waiting for a breakdown (vehicle), there comes a minibus carrying the passengers that were attending the church pilgrimage at Moleji; and that minibus hit the trailer of the truck at the rear and the Quantum (minibus) caught fire,” said Kagiso Mootane, spokesperson for the Limpopo Transport Department.
It’s believed the students were members of the Zion Christian Church group at Wits.
“The university has now dispatched a team to gather further information on the ground. We are aware that about six people may also (also) be Wits students who are in hospital nearby,” said Wits spokesperson, Shirona Patel.
The Ministry of Higher Education and Training sent its condolences to the students’ families.
“Our hearts are with (the) families of these students and the office of the minister (has sent its) condolences… We wish the families strength in such an hour. The university is doing all necessary in providing leadership to the matter between itself and families (sic),” the department said in a statement.
– eNCA
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