Bodies of the pilgrims who perished in a horror bus crash in Limpopo, South Africa during Easter holidays are starting to be repatriated home after six identifiable bodies were expected to arrive in Botswana today (Friday).
Limpopo Health MEC, Dr Phophi Ramathuba said in briefing that the families of the six individuals are currently at Mokopane Hospital in South Africa to collect the remains of their loved ones. "They are preparing to collect the identifiable remains of their loved ones, a process that is very difficult and emotional for all involved," she explained. She added that all legal processes to repatriate the remains of those who died in the Limpopo Bus crash, which occurred on March 28, 2024, are being done and there has been arrangements made already for the bodies to be transported back to Botswana.
"The Department of Health in South Africa has issued travel documents for the six bodies to be transported back to Botswana. However, before they can be repatriated, the families must first view and identify the bodies. "This is a necessary step in the repatriation process and can be a harrowing experience for the grieving families," she said. The Health MEC emphasised that the process of identifying and repatriating the remains of other victims is ongoing. "Once the other bodies have been identified, the respective families will be contacted and invited to collect the remains of their loved ones," she added. The bus that was involved in the crash was reportedly transporting Easter pilgrims from Gaborone to Saint Engenas Zion Christian Church in Moria when the tragic incident occurred. The crash claimed the lives of 45 people who were passengers on the bus with only an eight-year-old girl sustaining serious injuries but survived.
