Gunmen target Johannesburg’s BRT service
By IANSWednesday, September 2, 2009
JOHANNESBURG - Security has been beefed up in this South African city after two vehicles of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service were attacked, BuaNews reported Wednesday.
The BRT services were launched in the city two days ago amid a turf war between taxi operators and the authorities handling the public transport network.
The report said gunmen fired at two BRT buses from a minicab Tuesday evening before escaping. Two people, including a police officer, were wounded in the attack.
Johannesburg administration spokesperson Rehana Moosajee said police have been deployed at all the BRT buses and stations.
“We will do everything in our power to ensure a safe journey for everyone using Rea Vaya (BRT service),” Moosajee said.
Meanwhile, the police have detained six suspects in connection with the incident.
“At the moment we are only treating them as suspects,” a police officer said.
Transport Minister Sibusison Ndebele has condemned the shooting.
He said the government remains committed to implementing the BRT system in partnership with all stakeholders, including the taxi operators, through the National Joint Working Group (NJWG).
The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) has denied any involvement in the attack.
“Yesterday’s (Tuesday) incident does not reflect our position of constructive engagement to resolve the differences,” SANTACO said in a statement.
