Let this be a lesson – bereaved families speak

Parents warned action needs to be taken before more lives are lost

- MASABATA MKWANANZI [e-mail]

COSATU and its affiliates organised a candlelight ceremony yesterday at the scene of the accident to honour the deceased and offer condolences to the grieving families.

(ITUMELENG ENGLISH Independent Newspapers)

“WE CAN’T complain. I believe everything happens for a reason. But let this be a lesson for each and every taxi owner and any driver that is driving to be very cautious and do some introspection and monitor cars.”

Those were the words of Themba Radebe, family spokesperson for his late niece Busisiwe Radebe, 16, who died in the crash.

He was speaking outside the Vanderbijlpark Magistrates Court after private scholar transport driver Ayanda Dludla abandoned his bail application in the accident that claimed 14 learners in the Vaal.

Dludla appeared before the court on January 22, where the case was postponed to March 5, 2026. The deadly Vaal crash has once again placed the spotlight on road safety failures, vehicle roadworthiness, and alleged negligence within the taxi industry.

Grieving families said that the tragedy should serve as a turning point, warning that unless urgent action is taken, more lives will be lost.

Radebe, said the incident must be a lesson not only for drivers but also for vehicle owners who allow unroad-worthy taxis to operate.

Radebe said responsibility for the crash goes beyond the driver, arguing that vehicle owners must also be held accountable.

“This message must go to the taxi industry ... because we lost not only time, but we lost 14 lives,” he said.