Johannesburg - The SA Police Service is keeping a close watch over an illegal strike by MyCiTi bus drivers, who are resorting to violence and intimidation.
An illegal strike by MyCiTi bus drivers on certain routes was continuing on Thursday afternoon, the City of Cape Town said.
"Despite a meeting earlier today between some of the bus drivers and the management at Kidrogen, a MyCiTi vehicle operating company, the illegal strike is continuing into the afternoon peak hours," the city said in a statement.
The strike was affecting the bus service in Table View, Atlantis, Melkbosstrand, and Century City.
Striking drivers allegedly assaulted a non-striking bus driver and forced passengers off the MyCiTi bus. The driver managed to get away with the bus.
"Various violent incidents have been reported since the early morning hours, with the latest incident at around 12:30 in Parklands Main Road."
Mayoral committee member for transport Brett Herron said the city was shocked by such appalling behaviour.
"No form of violence can be tolerated as a lawful or legitimate form of protest, no matter the reason for the grievances or unhappiness," he said.
"The city, in collaboration with city law enforcement and the SA Police Service, is closely monitoring the situation," it said.
"The services along the T01 route and to Century City will only continue as per normal once the violence has stopped."