Bus drivers demand safety measures following incident

Bus drivers have demanded measures for the protection of themselves and their passengers in a letter sent by trade unions Sek and Peo to bus companies, following an incident in Nicosia.

“We have repeatedly highlighted the serious problems concerning the safety of drivers and passengers alike. It is unthinkable that in 2026 workers are exposed to dangers and unprovoked assaults while carrying out their duties, an no measures are taken to protect them,” the trade unions said.

The trade unions warned that if measures were not taken, the employees would “take all legal measures to protect their rights”.

They added that it was imperative that drivers be seated in a separate cabin and security cameras be installed.

The trade unions also propose the legislative coverage of inspectors of passenger transport companies, increased surveillance in crowded areas as a deterrent to violence and the possibility of banning passengers with delinquent behaviour from using the service.

“We expect your immediate and positive cooperation so that we are not forced to act retrospectively in the event of more serious incidents in the future,” the trade unions said.

Copies of the letter were sent to the labour and transport ministries, and the police.

On April 12, a driver was attacked on a bus in Aglandja, resulting in injuries to his head and knee.

Following the incident, Sek representative Charalambos Avgousti said there had been around a dozen serious incidents across all provinces over the past two years, yet companies still did not see the need to install protective booths.