South African man arrested for fatal Zambia crash

Johannesburg - A South African farm manager was arrested in Zambia on Friday in connection with a crash in which 51 people died near Lusaka, Zambian police said.

"He has been charged with 51 counts of causing death by dangerous driving," said spokesperson Elizabeth Kanjela.

Abraham Van Eeden, 74, was apparently trying to overtake a truck when he realised there was on-coming traffic, said Kanjela.

"He realised there was an oncoming truck. He tried to get out of the road, but hit the truck on the side. The truck lost control and crashed into the bus."

She said Van Eeden was alone in the bus at the time.

Earlier, President Jacob Zuma sent his condolences to Zambia.

"South Africa joins the people of Zambia in mourning the loss of lives of more than 50 people during this unfortunate accident. Our hearts go out to the families, relatives and friends of the deceased," he said.

He wished the injured a speedy recovery.

Kanjela said she did not know when Van Eeden would appear in court again.

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