Bus captain allegedly assaulted on duty; union calls it second incident in three months

A Go-Ahead Singapore bus captain sustained injuries after allegedly being assaulted while operating Service 2 on August 16. The incident disrupted the bus trip, and the captain received medical attention at Changi General Hospital before returning to work. Go-Ahead Singapore confirmed a police report has been lodged and stated the company is cooperating with authorities.

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We do not condone any form of abuse or violence against our colleagues, who carry out their duties every day so that commuters can reach their destinations safely.

Go-Ahead Singapore issued a statement condemning the violence, emphasizing that the safety and well-being of their employees are a priority. "We do not condone any form of abuse or violence against our colleagues, who carry out their duties every day so that commuters can reach their destinations safely," the company said.

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Their safety and well-being remain our priority, and we will continue to do our part to support and protect them.

The National Transport Workers’ Union (NTWU) highlighted the incident as concerning, noting it is the second alleged assault on a Go-Ahead bus captain within a three-month period. Yeo Wan Ling, executive secretary of NTWU, stressed that abuse and violence against public transport workers should never be normalized.

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Abuse and violence against public transport workers must never be normalised or accepted as simply part of the job.

"Disagreements and frustrations may arise during a journey. They can and should be resolved without resorting to abuse or violence," Yeo stated. The union has pledged to stand firmly with its bus captains, offering support including potential legal assistance, and is working with operators and authorities to enhance worker protection and ensure a safe working environment.

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Disagreements and frustrations may arise during a journey. They can and should be resolved without resorting to abuse or violence.