South African passenger train has caught fire after colliding with a truck, rescue workers state that at least 18 were killed while injuring 268.

Free State Health Department spokesman Mondli Mvambi has stated that some of the bodies were “burnt beyond recognition”.

According to a video footage that caught the crash, the fire blazed through at least one carriage, near a crushed car and an overturned truck, while evacuated passengers were seen standing on the roadside with luggage.

A passenger has explained that the collision occurred near Kroonstad city in Free State province, after the truck failed to stop at a crossing.

It was further noted that around 700 people were on the train when it was hit by the truck.

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