Press Release
It is with shock and dismay that the United National Transport Union (UNTU) has learned that one of its members, Mr. Pieter Barend (Piet) Botha, a train driver, was shot twice and died after being robbed at the Netreg Station in the Western Cape.
Mr. Botha was busy with refresher training on the central line and was waiting for a train after he had gotten off another train.
“This is another senseless murder on an innocent train driver who have dedicated his life to ensuring that commuters reach their destinations safely. UNTU condemn this barbaric act and plead with the public to come forward with any information that can assist the South African Police Service (SAPS) to put these murderers behind bars so that the law can take its cause,” says Mr. Steve Harris, General Secretary of UNTU.
UNTU also demands that the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) ensure that its stations are safe for employees and commuters to use. Mr. Harris said Prasa must investigate why there were not ample security present when this incident occurred.
UNTU also wants to convey our deepest sympathy and condolences with the family of Mr. Botha.
For further enquiries phone Mr. Harris on 082 566 5516.
Issued on behalf of UNTU by Sonja Carstens, Media and Liaison Officer. For UNTU Press Releases e-mail sonja@untu.co.za or phone 082 463 6806.
