POLICE are scanning CCTV footage after an irate passenger held up a bus driver at knifepoint on Windsor Rd at Bella Vista yesterday afternoon.
The 745 Busways vehicle had more than 40 students onboard when the man approached the driver in an agitated state demanding to know where the bus was going.
The 35-year-old driver told the man it was going to St Marys and the passenger demanded he stopped the bus immediately.
The driver told the man it was too dangerous to stop immediately and said he would pull over at the first stop.
Police said he was turning right into Norwest Blvde when the man pulled out a large army-style knife from his backpack.
State secretary of the Transport Workers Union Wayne Forno praised the action of the driver in diffusing the situation saying the attacker was allegedly swinging a long knife at the driver and threatening to cut his throat.
The man got of the bus when it stopped on Norwest Blvde.
The driver continued his route to St Marys.
The man who allegedly threatened the driver is described as of caucasian appearance, 25 to 30 years old, slim build, 178 cms tall and clean shaven.
At the time of the incident he was wearing white shorts, a black hoodie, black cap, black sun glasses and a black backpack.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or recognises the description and hasn’t yet spoken to police is urged to call Crime Syoppers on 1800 333 000.
Mr Forno said it was vital that drivers be removed from buses after such incidents.
“... a delayed shock reaction can be dangerous, especially when the driver is carrying a bus full of school children.”
He said the driver was undergoing counselling.
Source: whereilive
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