Gang attacks on buses spark fear for drivers and passengers
BUS drivers in Bristol are facing an increasing number of attacks from gangs of youths while working, reveal First Bus.
The transport company has raised concerns for their drivers after several shocking incidents in the Hartcliffe and Knowle West areas of the city. Objects being thrown at the buses and engine covers being pulled off are among the incidents taking place on a regular basis.
Passengers have also reported a worrying rise in violent events such as that shown in a video where two or more teenagers hit the bus and shout and swear at the driver and its passengers.
The man who captured the incident ( pictured) which happened on November 1 said it was the second night in a row his bus, the number 76 to Hengrove, had been attacked. He asked to remain anonymous for his own safety.
He said: “On the night the video was recorded and the night before, rocks and firecrackers were thrown at and in the bus. On the second night, the driver had been distracted while a young teen got on and disabled the bus, leaving us stuck at the stop. The experience was shocking as they were young teens dressed up and acting like total hooligans, endangering people on board. After the second night I personally haven’t experienced any more attacks but I’m always slightly wary when approaching those stops now.”
Other reports include a bus driver on the same route being attacked and robbed and windows of a bus being smashed, although this has not been verified by First Group.
In another incident, it was reported on social media that the bus had been egged and floured.
The company says it is very concerned for the welfare of its drivers.
First Bus said: “We are aware of two recent incidents in the Hartcliffe area, on the 75 and 76 routes. On at least two occasions, the engine cover at the rear of the bus has been opened meaning the driver has to leave the vehicle to close it to allow the bus to move away.
“There is also an ongoing issue on the number 90 service passing through Knowle West, where objects are being thrown at the bus which is causing damage to the vehicles.
“We are concerned about the reports coming in from our drivers about these incidents, and are working to find a resolution to the problem.”
James Freeman, managing director of First Bus said: “Our drivers face challenging situations on a daily basis - negotiating roadworks and congestion - and they shouldn’t have to worry about coming under attack while doing their job. We are taking this matter very seriously and will be reporting any such incidents to the police.”