The Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) has hailed the heroism displayed by a truck driver who helped police officers stop a reckless Zimbabwean bus driver on the N1 Ben Schoeman Highway on sunday 21 January 2024.
In a statement, TMPD spokesperson Senior Superintendent Isaac Mahamba stated that officers who were engaged in road policing, noticed the cross-border bus from Sable Class travelling from the Fountains area towards Centurion.
Alarmed by the overcrowded conditions on the bus, with passengers squeezed behind the front windscreen next to the driver, officers instructed the bus to stop.
Upon approaching the vehicle, officers requested the driver’s identification documents.
The driver produced a Zimbabwean driving license, passport, and a cross-border permit, which, upon inspection, were found to be counterfeit according to the National Land Transport Act, 2009 (Act 5 of 2009).
When instructed to stop, the driver defied orders and attempted to flee the scene.
A video of the incident was shared on social media.
Calling for reinforcements from various units, including the Overload Control Unit, regional members from Centurion, Region 4, Tactical Response Team, and Crime Prevention Unit from Region 3, the TMPD pursued the fleeing bus.
“A vigilant truck driver managed to block the bus, resulting in a confrontation,” said Mohamba.
“The Zimbabwean nationals onboard assaulted the truck driver, and in a desperate move, the bus driver collided with a TMPD vehicle.”
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“With the support of backup members, the bus driver and two Zimbabwean nationals were arrested on charges including assault, reckless and negligent driving, illegal immigration, damage to property, and obstruction of justice,” he added.
The remaining occupants fled in different directions, and the bus was impounded.
The arrested suspects are set to appear in court soon, while investigations continue to apprehend the escaped passengers.
Issuing a stern warning to illegal immigrants, TMPD spokesperson Senior Superintendent Isaac Mahamba stated, “TMPD will not condone any unruly behaviour and will arrest anyone who breaks the law.”
He also urged members of the public with information regarding the incident to contact the nearest South African Police Service (SAPS) and TMPD at 0123587095/6.
The TMPD expressed gratitude to the truck driver and other motorists who attempted to assist in bringing the situation under control.
