At least 13 schoolchildren were killed when a truck and a school minibus collided in Gauteng province, South Africa, on Monday, authorities said.

Eleven children died at the scene, while two others later died in hospital. The private minibus was transporting pupils to several primary and high schools in the southwest of Johannesburg when the crash occurred at about 7 am.

Witnesses said the minibus was overtaking stationary vehicles when it struck the truck head-on. Police said an investigation is under way and the truck driver will be questioned. Gauteng education MEC Matome Chiloane said the minibus driver would also be investigated for possible reckless driving.

Emergency services transported five injured passengers to Sebokeng Hospital and two others to Kopanong Hospital. The minibus driver was among those injured.

Parents gathered at the scene as emergency workers recovered books and stationery from the vehicle.

President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed condolences and said authorities would provide psychosocial support to affected families and schools. Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube said driver error was a common cause of school transport accidents and urged stricter checks on vehicle roadworthiness.

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