South Africa: Public transport targetted by petrol bomb attack in George, March 1

Event

Assailants petrol bombed a 'Go George' bus on Protea Road in Pacaltsdorp, 4 km (2.5 miles) South of George, early March 1, injuring 14 passengers. The injured have been taken to a nearby hospital, with five reportedly sustaining burn wounds. Police are currently investigating the incident and are yet to make any arrests. All other buses remain operational.

Increased security is likely in the area in the coming hours. Localized delays are likely as security forces investigate the issue.

Context

Public transport-related crime is common in South Africa. Buses and trains have been repeatedly targeted by acts of sabotage, arson, and occasionally petrol bombs. The likely perpetrators of these are criminals with links to the minibus taxi industry. Between October and December 2022, police services recorded 129 accounts of murder and attempted murder related to taxis. Authorities have been attempting to limit acts of violence and punish criminals so far with limited success. As a result, public transport usage in South Africa is generally not safe to use for travelers.

The minibus taxi industry is responsible for a significant portion of South Africa's transport services. However, it remains mostly informal and highly unregulated, and transport business often overlaps with criminal activity. Larger publicly-operated buses compete with smaller minibus taxis for passenger routes, especially between lower-income areas and cities' CBDs. Reports suggest that criminals linked to minibus syndicates have been carrying out bus attacks to dissuade passengers from using them and protect their business.

Advice

Do not make use of public transport. Plan for localized transport delays. Plan for increased demand for available alternative transport and increased employee absenteeism or delays.