Transport Minister Sibusiso Ndebele has condemned in the strongest
possible terms the shooting of a Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) system bus in
Soweto last night (1 September 2009) which left two people, including a
police officer, injured.
"As government, we condemn in the strongest possible terms the
shooting of a BRT bus in Soweto last night (1 September 2009) and wish
those injured a speedy recovery. We have called upon the SAPS to do
everything possible to ensure that the perpetrators of this crime are
speedily brought to book and face the full might of the law. We also
call upon members of the public who may have any information on this
shooting to please come forward.
"Such attacks on the lives of innocent citizens cannot be allowed to
continue. All law enforcement agencies are, therefore, stepping up their
measures to protect lives and property, including a stronger police
presence. We will continue to ensure that our commuters are protected at
all cost.
"We remain committed to implementing the BRT system in partnership
with all stakeholders, especially the taxi industry. Through the
National Joint Working Group (NJWG) on Public Transport, we will
continue our intensive engagement with the taxi industry. Therefore, any
issues of concern must be addressed through the NJWG.
"We want to re-iterate that the interest of the commuter remains
paramount," said the Minister.