The Free State Education Department has identified the child as a grade 12 learner from Hanover Farm near Bulfontein in the Lejweleputswa district.

According to Free State police spokesperson Stephen Thakeng, the incident took place on Monday 30 January 2023 when the bus arrived at the Oranjekuil farm bus stop where learners were waiting for the bus to take them to school.

"The bus driver came to a halt, took out the list, and began calling out the names of learners who then boarded the bus until only one student remained outside the bus. It's alleged that the 17-year-old learner, who was not called, entered the bus and asked the driver why he was not allowed on the bus."

School bus driver attacking a pupil. Reportedly happened in Free State, Thabong, Welkom @SAPoliceService pic.twitter.com/WzTL0IBrbJ

— Independent Forensic Investigation Unit (@ForensicsZA) February 1, 2023

Thakeng said that is when the driver started to assault the learner by kicking and strangling him. He alleged that the boy tried to fight back, but the driver assaulted him more. He added that the learner reported the incident to his mother. The learner sustained internal injuries, bruises on his body, and could not sleep as a result of the assault. 

ALSO READ: Free State learner assaulted by school bus driver

Thakeng goes on to say that the bus driver is facing assault and attempted murder charges. He says the charges were reviewed after consultations with prosecution authorities based on the new evidence in the form of a video clip that was viewed.

The suspect is expected to appear in Hoopstad Magistrate's Court on Friday 3 February 2023.

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