Kenny Kunene, Member of the Mayoral Committee for Transport in Johannesburg, has announced a R100,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of those responsible for the fatal shootings of two Rea Vaya bus drivers on Monday night. Kunene expressed his deep concern over the attacks, describing them as a direct assault on both the community and the government. He emphasized that the reward would come from his personal funds, not the city’s budget, and would be issued as soon as police confirm credible evidence linking suspects to the crime.
According to reports, the first driver was ambushed and shot while stopped at a traffic light on Wildchestnut Street in Protea. In a separate but similar attack, another driver was shot on Tshithuthune Street in Mapetla. After being wounded, the second driver lost control of the bus and later succumbed to his injuries. These coordinated attacks have led to the suspension of Rea Vaya services indefinitely as police investigations continue.
Kunene condemned the murders, calling them a “declaration of war” on Soweto residents and the broader Johannesburg community. In response to the escalating violence, he announced that a thorough security assessment is underway to enhance safety at BRT stations and along feeder routes. Additional resources will be allocated to escort buses and protect drivers in an effort to prevent further violence.
