Cape Town police are investigating the exact cause of an accident after a taxi crashed near Parliament on Friday morning. The vehicle was transporting 22 children to school when it crashed into a bollard in Plein Street.
It’s understood that the learners, aged between
6 and 14 years, are from 12 different schools, largely within the city bowl and
Walmer Estate areas. The learners sustained minor to serious injuries and was
sent to various health facilities.
‘’I am deeply distressed by an incident that
happened outside Parliament this morning involving learners on their way to
school. 21 learners and 2 adults were in the minibus taxi when it crashed. This
is clearly overloading. The injuries of
the learners range from serious to minor, with learners being sent to Red Cross
Hospital. Somerset Hospital, Green Point Clinic and District 6 clinic,’’ said
Education MEC, Debbie Schafer.
According to the Western Cape’s Education
Department, the driver allegedly has no drivers license nor does he have an
operating license.
‘’We have been in contact with our colleagues
from Department of Transport and Public Works regarding investigation of these
matters and what action can be taken.‘’
‘’Our learners' lives matter. Their safety
matters. This kind of reckless and irresponsible behaviour by the driver and/or
owners of this vehicle must not go unpunished,’’ she added.
Parliament issued a statement conveying
condolences to family and friends of a pupil it claimed died in the accident.
Schäfer has meanwhile disputed parliament's
claim that a pupil succumbed to the injuries.
“We have checked with the SA Police Service,
emergency medical service, the hospitals — no death of a learner reported. It
appears that the statement from parliament was incorrect.”
Done By: Mitchum George
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