Scholar Transport Driver Abandons Bail on 14 Murder Charges

A 22-year-old scholar transport driver has abandoned his bail application after appearing in the Vanderbijlpark Magistrates’ Court on multiple serious charges linked to a deadly road crash that claimed the lives of schoolchildren.

Ayanda Dludla is facing 14 counts of murder, three counts of attempted murder, and several additional charges related to alleged road traffic violations. These include operating a motor vehicle without a certificate of fitness, driving without a valid professional driving permit (PrDP), and operating an unlicensed motor vehicle.

Deadly R553 Collision

According to information presented before the court, the incident occurred on 19 January 2026 on the R553 Golden Highway. It is alleged that Dludla was driving a scholar transport vehicle carrying 16 learners when the vehicle was involved in a head-on collision with an oncoming truck.

Fourteen learners died as a result of the collision. Two other learners survived but sustained injuries, along with the truck driver. Emergency services responded to the scene, and the injured were transported to medical facilities for treatment.

The scale of the tragedy has sparked widespread grief and renewed concern around scholar transport safety, particularly compliance with roadworthiness and licensing regulations.

Bail Abandoned in Court

During his court appearance, Dludla elected not to proceed with a bail application, meaning he will remain in custody while the case continues. The court postponed the matter to 05 March 2026 to allow for further investigations.

At this stage, no plea has been entered, and the allegations against the accused have not yet been tested in court.

Ongoing Investigation

The case is being handled by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Gauteng Division: Pretoria. Prosecutors are expected to rely on accident reconstruction reports, vehicle compliance documentation, and witness statements as investigations continue.

The tragic incident has once again highlighted the importance of strict enforcement of scholar transport regulations, including vehicle roadworthiness, driver qualifications, and learner safety.

Community Impact

Families, schools, and communities affected by the crash continue to mourn the loss of the learners. Authorities have urged the public to allow the legal process to unfold and to avoid speculation while investigations are ongoing.

The matter returns to court on 05 March 2026.