Omitara: Three people died after the minibus they were travelling in overturned on the Omitara-Otjinene road on Friday. The deceased were identified as 38-year-old Tjeripo Pujatura, who was the driver of the minibus, Kutuouvi Vandjeka, 32, and Vezembouua Hiuii (age unknown).

According to Namibia Press Agency, the Omaheke Namibian Police report availed to Nampa by Chief Inspector Fina Sakajengenga on Sunday, it is alleged that the white minibus with 16 occupants was travelling from Windhoek to Otjinene at the time of the incident. 'The left back tyre of the vehicle burst, the vehicle swerved off the road on the right, the driver tried to pull it back and lost control,' said the report.

The bus overturned and rolled approximately three times before coming to a standstill on its side. The driver and two passengers died at the scene while 13 passengers were transported to Otjinene State Clinic for medical assessment. From the 13, two people sustained minor injuries, five moderate and six serious injuries and they were further transported to Gobabis State Hospital for further medical attention.

The next of kin of the deceased were informed. Police investigations into the incident continue.