Five children were killed Wednesday when a train hit a school bus in South Africa, injuring 20 others, the transport ministry stated.
The accident happened in the afternoon near Mafube village, close to Middelburg, about 180 kilometers northeast of Johannesburg.
“A tragic accident at a level crossing, involving a bus and a train, resulted in the deaths of five children and injuries to 20 others,” the government confirmed.
“The safety of our children is paramount, and it is heartbreaking to witness such a loss,” Deputy Transport Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa said.
Police and emergency services were still at the scene in the evening and could not be contacted immediately for further details.
