At least 13 schoolchildren were killed on Monday after a truck crashed into a school minibus in South Africa’s Gauteng province, police and emergency officials said.

Initial reports indicated that 11 children died at the scene, while two others later succumbed to their injuries at hospital. The privately operated minibus was carrying pupils to several primary and secondary schools in the southwest of Johannesburg when the crash occurred at around 7:00 am.

According to witnesses, the minibus was attempting to overtake stationary vehicles when it collided head-on with the truck. Police said an investigation has been launched into the incident and the truck driver will be questioned.

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Gauteng Emergency Services said five injured passengers were taken to Sebokeng Hospital, while two others were transported to Kopanong Hospital for further treatment. The minibus driver was also injured and among those admitted to hospital.

President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, saying national and provincial authorities would provide affected families and schools with psychosocial support.

“Our children are the nation’s most precious assets, and we must do everything possible - from obeying road rules to ensuring the quality and safety of school transport services - to protect learners,” Ramaphosa said.

Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube said many school transport accidents are linked to driver negligence and urged the Department of Transport to ensure vehicles used to carry schoolchildren meet roadworthiness standards.