The MyCiti bus strike in Cape Town escalated today and police had to fire stun grenades on rowdy protesters in the CBD. Bus drivers and other MyCiti staff members, including security guards, marshals and cleaners, participated in an illegal strike on Monday morning.

At around 1pm, roughly 10 stun grenades were fired by police on the scene near Adderley Street and Hans Strijdom Avenue.

Staff are protesting for better benefits associated with being insourced by the City. The strike has brought the MyCiti services around Cape Town to a halt.

“I must apologise to commuters who will be affected this morning and who will struggle to get to and from work if the strike persists,” said Mayco member for Transport and Urban Development, Brett Herron.

Bus drivers reportedly continue to block bus lanes and there is no news as to when the strike will come to an end and services will resume.

“This is unacceptable. I urge the VOCs and their employees to meet as soon as possible. These engagements must be facilitated through the appropriate channels so that the impasse can be resolved,” said Herron.

Commuters have been advised to make alternative transportation plans until further notice.

Communters  can contact the transport information centre 24/7 on 0800 6564 63 for updates on the services.

 

Picture: Twitter

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