Pupils die in freak accident

TWO girls from Bulu Secondary in Mangwe District died after falling off a moving truck while on their way from school, police reported.

Matabeleland South provincial police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Christopher Ngwenya confirmed the incident, which occurred on Friday afternoon at the 90 kilometre peg along Plumtree-Mphoengs Road.

He identified the Form Three girls as Lesley Moyo (16) and Sibonile Maburo (15).

Asst Insp Ngwenya said the two pupils together with other pupils were offered a lift by the driver of the truck, which was towing two trailers. He said Lesley and Sibonile fell out when the tailgate of the truck accidentally opened.

"The two pupils boarded the first trailer and upon reaching the 90 kilometre peg, the rear loading board opened and the pupils who were leaning against the board fell off the truck.

"They were run over by the wheels of the second trailer and they sustained severe injuries," said Asst Insp Ngwenya.

He said Lesley died upon admission to Bulu Clinic while Sibonile died on her way to Brunapeg Hospital.