A bus driver and two Zimbabwean nationals were arrested following a chase by law enforcement officials and an assault on the Ben Schoeman Highway, the main freeway between Johannesburg and Pretoria, on Sunday.

The three were arrested for assault, reckless and negligent driving, illegally entering the country, damage to property and obstruction of justice.

Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) spokesperson Senior Superintendent Isaac Mahamba says the TMPD accident unit was conducting road policing on the highway when they caught sight of a bus coming from the Fountains Circle.

“The bus was carrying too many passengers and some passengers were crowded behind the front windscreen next to the driver,” he adds.

According to Mahamba, the bus was heading in the direction of Centurion when police gave chase.

“Officers instructed the bus driver to stop. They approached the bus and asked for the driver’s identification.”

Mahamba says the driver presented a Zimbabwean driver’s licence and passport, however, the cross-border permit was found to be fake in terms of the National Land Transport Act, 2009 (Act 5 of 2009).

He says things took a dramatic turn when the passengers on the bus instructed the driver to drive away from the scene, which then led to officers following them and instructing the driver to stop.

“He refused and the TMPD members called for backup from the overload control unit, regional members from Centurion Region 4 tactical response team, and crime prevention unit from Region 3.”

Mahamba says a truck driver who witnessed the chase was able to block the bus.

“The bus stopped and the Zimbabwean nationals from the bus alighted and assaulted the truck driver. The bus driver then drove straight to the TMPD vehicle and bumped into it.”

Mahamba says with the assistance of backup police, the three were arrested.

The other occupants of the bus escaped in different directions.

“The bus was impounded. The three suspects will appear in court soon, and investigations into the incident will continue to apprehend the escaped passengers.”

Mahamba warns other motorists and those entering the country to obey the law.

“The TMPD will not condone any unruly behaviour and will arrest anyone who breaks the law. We appeal to members of the public who might have any information regarding this incident to contact the nearest SAPS and TMPD on 012 358 7095/6.

Mahamba thanked the truck driver and other motorists who tried to assist.