Five men are set to appear in the Dutywa magistrate's court on Wednesday, facing charges related to the torching of an AB350 bus. The incident occurred on Tuesday, when the bus was travelling from Willowvale to Dutywa. According to Transport spokesperson Unathi Binqose, the bus was allegedly attacked by Van Taxi members, who pelted it with stones and attacked the driver.
The attack on the bus resulted in the driver and one passenger sustaining minor injuries, and the driver was allegedly robbed of an estimated R3,500. Approximately 40 bus passengers were hiding in nearby residential premises when the incident occurred. The bus was subsequently torched, and police were called to the scene. Binqose stated that while police were still at the crime scene, they received information about another AB350 bus being chased by Van Taxi members.
Police proceeded to the scene and found the second bus safe, escorting it to ensure the passengers' safety. Five male suspects were arrested and charged with malicious damage to property, assault with grievous bodily harm, and robbery with aggravating circumstances. The suspects are expected to appear in the Dutywa magistrate's court on September 30. The South African Police Service (SAPS) is closely monitoring the area to prevent any future attacks.
Extra deployment has been requested from the Public Order Policing (POP) unit to maintain order in the area. A meeting is being organised with all affected parties to find a long-term solution to the violence and intimidation. Meanwhile, transport and community safety MEC Xolile Nqatha has severely criticised the torching of the bus and the alleged violent incidents.
MEC Nqatha applauds police for their swift action in arresting the five suspects. The MEC has encouraged all parties to sit around the table to iron out their differences and to refrain from violence and intimidation. Nqatha has issued a stern warning to perpetrators that the government will not tolerate violence and destruction of property.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of bus passengers and the impact of violence on the community. The SAPS and local authorities are working together to address the issue and prevent future incidents. The community is urged to cooperate with the authorities and report any suspicious activity.
The five men's appearance in court on Wednesday is a significant step towards holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. The outcome of the case will be closely watched by the community and authorities, who are seeking a long-term solution to the violence and intimidation.
Key points
- Five men arrested and charged with torching AB350 bus and robbing driver of R3,500.
- Authorities condemn violence, issue stern warning to perpetrators.
- Meeting to be organised to find long-term solution to violence and intimidation.
