Recently, a video that has gone viral online captures a bus driver verbally assaulting a female passenger and then forcibly removing her from the vehicle.
The incident posted on TikTok, which has since sparked widespread outrage, occurred on May 2 around 9:10 AM, according to the Johor Bahru South District police chief.
The bus driver was suspended
The Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) has directed the bus company to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, emphasizing the need to prevent such occurrences in the future.
The 50-second video clip, which has been widely shared on social media, shows the driver scolding the woman, reportedly over non-payment of the bus fare.
APAD issued a statement yesterday asserting that the driver has been suspended given the severity of the issue.
The agency reiterated its stance that it will not compromise with any public transport operators or drivers who undermine public trust in land transport services.
The woman allegedly did not pay the bus fare
On the other hand, the Johor Bahru South District police chief confirmed receiving a report about the incident.
“Preliminary information revealed that the female passenger in the video that went viral on social media was verbally abused by the driver because she did not pay the bus fare.”
The case would be investigated under Section 352 of the Penal Code for using criminal force, and Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act 1955 for committing an indecent act.
The police are still investigating to identify the suspect involved. The 31-year-old local woman who reported the abuse was not physically injured.
Authorities have urged anyone with information about the incident to contact the Johor Bahru South District police headquarters at 07-2182323.