‘Madness’ as long-distance bus is petrol-bombed

CAPE TOWN: Police in the Western Cape are investigating two cases of murder following the petrol-bombing of a doubledecker InterCape bus that left two passengers dead last night.

ER24 spokesman Werner Vermaak said that 32 passengers had been injured in the attack in Strand.

Cape Town mayoral committee member for safety and security Jean-Pierre Smith said two fire engines and a rescue vehicle had been sent to douse the burning bus.

He said their emergency services had treated four people for severe burn wounds before taking them to hospital.

Scores of other passengers on the top deck of the bus had been treated for burn wounds at various hospitals, he said.

“It’s madness. It’s just too horrible.

“This is a long-distance bus and somewhere there is a mother, or daughter, or sister, waiting for these two men who burnt to death,” Smith said.

InterCape released a short statement after the attack confirming that “one of its coaches was petrol-bombed in Strand”.

“The incident is being investigated and the motive for this horrendous attack is not yet clear,” the company said.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.”

Police spokeswoman, Constable Noloyiso Rwexana said several cases of attempted murder were also being investigated. – ANA