Golden Arrow will be counting the cost of the latest attacks on its buses on Wednesday, as a written-off vehicle costs R2.7 million to replace.
Western Cape MEC for Transport Daylin Mitchell has condemned the burning of buses and private vehicles in the Nyanga and Philippi areas.
Four Golden Arrow buses, private and state vehicles were burned and stoned this morning following an operation to impound illegal local Avanza taxis, also known as Amaphela (cockroaches), by Law Enforcement.
One bus driver suffered head injuries.
“These actions are completely unacceptable, purely criminal and will not be tolerated. We will not compromise on the safety of commuters and citizens,” said Mitchell.
He warned the provincial government would use regulatory measures and powers at its disposal against those engaged in public violence, arson, intimidation or any other criminal acts that impacted on the safety and dignity of public transport users and citizens.
“We must defend the constitutional order and uphold the rights of commuters and other stakeholders. I will not stand by and see this thuggery continue,” warned Mitchell.
On August 5, Golden Arrow Bus Services (GABS) told the standing committee on transport and public works that it had incurred huge financial losses due to robberies, stoning and arson attacks on its buses.
General manager Derick Meyer said in the last financial year the company spent R2m to fit new windows, and every time a bus was lost it cost the company R2.7m.
In addition, the company’s insurance premiums had rocketed to about R10m a year.
“But most important is the fear factor among our drivers, who have to wonder whether they would be robbed or attacked every time they go behind the wheel, even in areas where they live,” said Meyer.
He said only one person was found guilty and sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment in connection with one of the incidents.