Attention broadcasters: English and Afrikaans audio clips attached
The DA in the Western Cape strongly condemns the petrol bombing attack on the Go George bus service in Pacaltsdorp, which left passengers and four children severely injured.
We call on the South African Police Service (SAPS) to conduct a comprehensive investigation and apprehend the offenders.
In the early hours of yesterday morning, a Go George bus was attacked by unknown suspects traveling on the Protea Road in Pacaltsdorp. As a result of the attack, 11 passengers were left hospitalised including children.
On Tuesday this week, the George Municipality announced that the community of Thembalethu would be receiving the first rollouts of the Go George bus services. An initiative that will greatly benefit the people of Thembalethu as they too would gain access to an affordable, reliable and effective public transport system. If these attacks continue unabated, the people of Thembalethu may be denied access to efficient bus services.
While the motive behind the attack is unclear, damage to critical and essential infrastructure is completely unacceptable.
MPP Derrick America says, “I urge the SAPS to ensure that the case is dealt with the urgency and diligence it requires. Damage to public transport is detrimental to both society and the economy. While the City of George should be investing in making the Go George bus services better, they now will be forced to spend additional funds on fixing the damaged infrastructure. Those responsible for this violence must be arrested and face the full might of the law.”