DUTYWA, Eastern Cape — The recent Dutywa bus attack has resulted in multiple suspects appearing in court to face severe charges, including arson, attempted murder, and robbery. The violent incident, which involved the torching of a commuter vehicle, has sparked widespread concern over passenger safety and transport security in the region.
According to a police spokesperson, the ordeal began when stones were rained down on a bus traveling along Colosa Road. The attackers, who were traveling in several bakkies (pickup trucks), allegedly robbed the passengers before setting the vehicle alight. During the chaos, both the bus driver and a passenger sustained injuries.
The police spokesperson further confirmed that a second bus was also chased by the assailants. However, law enforcement officers swiftly intervened, preventing the second vehicle from being damaged.
While initial reports indicated that five men were accused in the Dutywa bus attack, court records show that six suspects ultimately appeared before the magistrate. The incident has been classified as a Schedule 5 offense. The case has been postponed to allow for a formal bail application, which the state has confirmed it will strongly oppose.
Commuters have been left deeply shaken by the violence, with many expressing fear over their daily travels. Victims and witnesses recounted the terror of the ordeal, describing how attackers wielding large axes and throwing stones forced them to the ground while their luggage was looted.
Despite the trauma, passengers noted that they remain heavily reliant on the bus services. Commuters explained that they have no alternative transportation, as private vehicles cannot access their remote pickup points, forcing them to continue using the buses despite the risks.
In the wake of the violence, local industry leaders have moved quickly to clarify their stance. A spokesperson for the local transport association firmly distanced local van and taxi operators from the attack, emphasizing that the broader transport sector condemns the unlawful violence.
Meanwhile, the Mbhashe Local Municipality has officially condemned the attacks. A spokesperson for the municipality emphasized that transport operators already have established, formal channels to raise and resolve their disputes. The municipal spokesperson urged stakeholders to utilize the existing participant forums to lodge complaints legally, rather than resorting to violence, and reaffirmed the local government’s support for peaceful conflict resolution.
The accused remain in custody as the legal process continues, with the community waiting for the outcome of the upcoming bail hearing.
