The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) says it has prima facie evidence to charge scholar transport driver Ayanda Dludla, 22, with 14 counts of murder instead of culpable homicide.
Dludla’s vehicle collided with a truck on the Golden Highway in Vanderbijlpark, Vaal, on Monday, killing 14 pupils.
Police on Thursday said the death toll had increased from 12 to 14 after two pupils died in hospital.
NPA spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana said: “We have prima facie evidence to charge the accused with 14 counts of murder, three counts of attempted murder and reckless driving.”
She said investigations are ongoing and they are yet to take statements from some witnesses.
NPA spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana says the state has prima facie evidence to charge scholar transport driver Ayanda Dludla with 14 counts of murder instead of culpable homicide. Dludla, 22, has abandoned bail.
— Sowetan (@Sowetan1981) January 22, 2026
Video: @Moloi_Herman1 pic.twitter.com/dWHPxVWg0B
Dludla appeared at the Vanderbijlpark magistrate’s court on Thursday morning and abandoned bail.
Scholar transport driver Ayanda Dludla, 22, appeared in the Vanderbijlpark magistrate's court on Thursday as authorities said the death toll following Monday's crash has increased to 14. He is facing 14 counts of murder, among other charges and has abandoned bail.
— Sowetan (@Sowetan1981) January 22, 2026
Video:… pic.twitter.com/mVrHJYeV6t
Sowetan
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.