Vanderbijlpark crash: Scholar transport driver granted R3,000 bail

by Zintle Mdaka

Ayanda Dludla, the scholar transport driver accused in the crash that claimed the lives of 14 learners in Vanderbijlpark, has been granted R3,000 bail by the Vanderbijlpark Magistrate’s Court.

Also see: ‘He was disoriented’: Taxi owner speaks after Vanderbijlpark crash [VIDEO]

Ayanda appeared in court on Wednesday, 9 September 2026, where the court considered his fresh bail application. The 23-year-old had previously abandoned an earlier bid for release but returned to court with an application based on new facts, reported EWN.

The fatal crash happened on 19 January 2026 on the R553 Golden Highway, just days after schools reopened. Ayanda was allegedly transporting 17 learners in a Toyota Quantum when the minibus collided with a side-tipper truck. Eleven learners died at the scene, while three others later succumbed to their injuries in hospital.

Ayanda faces 14 counts of murder and three counts of attempted murder. He is also facing charges relating to road traffic offences, including allegedly driving without a professional driving permit and operating an unlicensed or unroadworthy vehicle.

Also see: 3 pupils from Vaal crash honoured in a joint funeral in Gauteng

State opposed bail

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) opposed Ayanda’s release, arguing that releasing him could place his safety at risk because of continued public anger over the deaths.

According to the publication, his legal team, however, rejected claims of credible threats against him. The defence argued that Ayanda was not a flight risk and would comply with the court’s imposed conditions.

The court ultimately found that it was in the interests of justice to grant bail.

Ayanda’s release comes with strict conditions. He must report to the Vanderbijlpark Police Station every Friday, may not drive any motor vehicle while the case is pending and must reside at his mother’s home unless authorised otherwise by the investigating officer. He is also prohibited from interfering with witnesses, reported TimesLIVE.

If Ayanda wishes to communicate an apology to the families of the deceased learners, the court ordered that this must be done through the investigating officer.

Families react to bail decision

The decision has sparked an emotional response from families who lost their children in the crash.

SABC News reported that Innocentia Binger, whose seven-year-old son Tshepo was among those killed, broke down following the bail ruling. She expressed concern about having to live in the same community as the accused while grieving the loss of her child.

The families’ reaction highlights the continuing emotional impact of the January tragedy, which renewed concerns around scholar transport safety and road safety more broadly.

Also see: Sbahle Mzizi pens heartfelt condolence message after Vaal accident

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