A bus operator was hit in the face with a pellet gun while on duty along a route in Limerick, according to a union representative. The incident is currently under investigation by the Gardaí and transpired on the 303 bus in the O’Malley Park district of the city. The female operator, in her thirties, reportedly suffered minor afflictions and was transferred to a medical facility as a preventative measure.
The driver, who had been working for Bus Éireann for only two weeks, was reportedly confronted by a group of adolescents at a bus stop. The youth gang refused to settle their bus fare, pressurising the driver to let them on board, according to the statement issued by the National Bus and Rail Union (NBRU).
The union further narrated how the driver, out of fear and intimidation, decided to let the gang board the bus. As they were alighting, one of the gang members unveiled an air gun, shooting the driver below the eye.
The NBRU highlighted this grievous incident as further evidence of the pressing necessity for a fully dedicated Garda Public Transport Unit.
On its part, Bus Éireann affirmed its commitment to an in-depth investigation of the incident, having already forwarded it to An Garda Síochána, and halted services along the affected route while investigations proceed. The company encouraged prospective passengers to refer to the Service Updates segment on their website for more information.
Bus Éireann declared its zero-tolerance policy towards antisocial or unlawful actions against its patrons or staff. The company emphasised the significance it places on the safety of its passengers and staff and pledged to examine any reported incidents thoroughly. It encouraged customers to report events to the Gardaí, the driver, or their customer care team either via phone or email.
A Garda representative confirmed that the police was informed of the incident just past midday and is conducting further inquiries.