The minibus taxi driver involved in a collision with a side-tipper truck on the R553 in Vanderbijlpark earlier this year appeared briefly in the Vanderbijlpark Regional Court on Wednesday morning.
Twenty-two-year-old Ayanda Dludla is currently facing 14 counts of murder and three counts of attempted murder, along with other charges related to the tragic crash involving student transport.
Throughout the ongoing legal proceedings, Dludla has made multiple court appearances, with delays particularly affecting his anticipated bail application.
During Wednesday’s hearing, the court was informed that the case docket remains with the Director of Public Prosecutions, and a final decision regarding specific issues raised in the last appearance is still pending.
The State indicated that the docket must be retrieved before the formal hearing and bail application can take place. Consequently, the case has been postponed until the State has the necessary documents.
Advocate Nxumalo, representing Dludla, noted that the involved parties have agreed that bail proceedings will fall under Schedule 5.
“I would like to place on record that we have agreed on the schedule, to say that the bail schedule will be Schedule 5 and the bail will proceed per charge currently on 18 June 2026,” Advocate Nxumalo stated.
The continuous delays have left the families of the 14 students affected by the incident feeling frustrated and disheartened. Some parents expressed their anger regarding the management of the case, emphasizing their desire for justice for their children.
One parent was visibly emotional after the case was adjourned, while others voiced their dissatisfaction outside the courtroom.
The next court date is set for 18 June 2026 for a formal hearing that will include the investigating officer and the bail application.
Until his next court appearance, Dludla will remain in custody.
