WATCH: TMPD gives chase, truck dramatically assists in stopping runaway bus
The bus driver’s flight was terminated by a truck driver, who was later assaulted for his actions.
A bus driver and two Zimbabwean nationals were arrested for assault, recklessness and negligent driving, illegally entering the country, damage to property and obstruction of justice on Sunday, January 21.
The three were arrested following a chase from law enforcement and an assault on the Ben Schoeman Highway, the main freeway between Johannesburg and Pretoria.
Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) spokesperson Senior Superintendent Isaac Mahamba said the TMPD accident unit was conducting road policing on the highway when they caught sight of a bus coming from the Fountains Circle.
“The bus was carrying too many passengers and some passengers were crowded behind the front windscreen next to the driver,” he said.
According to Mahamba, the bus was heading in the direction of Centurion when police gave pursuit.
“Officers instructed the bus driver to stop. They approached the bus and asked for the driver’s identification.”
Mahamba said the driver yielded a Zimbabwean driving licence and passport, however, the cross-border permit was found to be fake in terms of the National Land Transport Act, 2009 (Act 5 of 2009).
He said things took a dramatic turn when the passengers on the bus instructed the driver to drive away from the scene, which then led to officers following them in pursuit and instructing the driver to stop.
“He refused and the TMPD members called for backup from the overload control unit, regional members from Centurion Region 4 tactical response team, and crime prevention unit from Region 3.”
He said one truck driver who witnessed the chase was able to block the bus.
WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=251KK5E_T4E&feature=youtu.be
“The bus stopped and the Zimbabwean nationals from the bus alighted and assaulted the truck driver. The bus driver then drove straight to the TMPD vehicle and bumped into it.”
Mahamba said with the assistance of backup police, the bus driver and two Zimbabwean nationals were arrested.
The other occupants of the bus escaped in different directions.
“The bus was impounded. The three suspects will appear in court soon, and investigations into this incident will continue to apprehend the escaped passengers.”
Mahamba also warned other motorists and those entering the country to obey the law.
“The TMPD will not condone any unruly behaviour and will arrest anyone who breaks the law. We appeal to members of the public who might have any information regarding this incident to contact the nearest SAPS and TMPD on 012 358 7095/6.
Mahamba thanked the truck driver and other motorists who tried to assist.
WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8nryTiS4TRQ
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