Eight people were injured in a coordinated petrol-bomb attack targeting Golden Arrow Bus Services operations in Vrygrond, Cape Town.
The incident unfolded around 07:45 a.m. on a Thursday as commuters were making their way to work. Protesters blocked the intersection of Vrygrond Avenue and Prince George Drive with burning tires and rubble, launching petrol bombs at several vehicles, including a bread truck and a bus carrying five passengers.
Though the bomb did not ignite the bus, all five passengers sustained burn-related injuries—three were taken to hospital for further treatment.
Police and public order officers were dispatched to the scene to restore control. Two suspects were swiftly arrested in possession of petrol bombs and are expected to appear in a local magistrate’s court.
Golden Arrow Bus Services confirmed the attack. A spokesperson noted that the bus was travelling from the town centre toward Blue Route Mall when it was targeted. Fortunately, there were no fatalities.
This incident reflects ongoing transport-related tensions in the region. Earlier protests in the area saw communities demanding protection for informal shacks in Xakabantu and greater access to direct transport links from Vrygrond to Blue Route Mall, where Vrygrond taxis have long been restricted from parking.
Victims described the event as traumatic. One survivor recounted needing to jump out of the bus to escape smoke and flames—leaving lasting emotional and physical scars. Some have since pursued claims through the Road Accident Fund and called on Golden Arrow for compensation and mental health support.
Golden Arrow condemned the violence in the strongest terms and urged authorities to take decisive action to protect commuters and staff. The company has sought legal recourse, highlighting the increasing threats posed by violent protest actions on public transport infrastructure.
With tensions continuing in affected communities and protests centered on transport equity and housing insecurity, Cape Town law enforcement maintains a visible presence in hotspot areas to prevent further escalation.
This incident underscores the vulnerability of public transport operators and commuters in areas where social unrest and infrastructure grievances collide. Authorities and service providers are under pressure to balance law enforcement with community engagement to prevent further violence.
