Eastern Cape transport department spokesperson Unathi Binqose said it is feared that much more people are trapped inside the wrecked, overturned bus, so death toll could rise in coming hours. A baby boy is among the dead.

The bus crash took place on the notorious section of the N2, known as the Kei Cuttings, south of the Kei River, which is known for its perilous twists and turns, local press reported.

The Chief Director of clinical support services for the health department Kidwell Matshotyana said 22 people were stable, while five patients were taken to Frere Hospital and Life St Dominic’s Private Hospital, both in East London.

The driver is believed to have lost control of the long-distance passenger bus before it plunged 200m down a steep embankment.

mh/pll/oda / mv