Woman Killed, Two Injured As Bus From Mthatha Comes Under Fire

A long-distance bus trip turned into a nightmare on Wednesday when gunmen opened fire on a Makalala Trans bus travelling from Mthatha to Cape Town, killing one woman and injuring two others.

The shooting happened in broad daylight at around 4.30 pm on the R61 between Cofimvaba and Engcobo in the Eastern Cape.

Bus ambush leaves horror on the highway

According to police, the bus came under heavy gunfire, forcing the driver to pull over as terrified passengers screamed for cover.

A female passenger was shot dead instantly, while the co-driver and another passenger sustained serious injuries. They were rushed to a nearby health facility for treatment.

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Eastern Cape transport MEC Xolile Nqatha slammed the attack, calling it “barbaric and criminal.”

“We cannot allow such acts of violence to go unpunished,” he said. “Those responsible for this heinous act must be swiftly brought to justice. The safety of our people and the integrity of our transport system cannot be compromised.”

Police probe possible transport turf war

Authorities believe the bus shooting may be linked to long-running disputes in the public transport sector, particularly over route control and competition among operators.

“The attack may be linked to unfair competition or turf-related disputes,” said Nqatha. “The right of every citizen to use a mode of transport of their choice must be respected and protected. Violence and intimidation have no place on our roads or in our communities.”

He extended condolences to the family of the deceased passenger and wished the injured a full recovery.
Police have launched a manhunt for the attackers and are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS app.

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