Port Moresby residents have differing views on the action taken by owners of the privately-run public transport service to stop their operations early as 6am today.
Some blamed the Police for using excessive force, resulting in the death of the PMV bus crew, while others say it’s about time the National Capital District Commission runs the service itself.
These are some views of the public.
“I think bus services should go back NCDC. Why? Look at what is happening, bus strike everyone is affected, businesses are affected. And taxis use this to their advantage to increase their fares,” stated Miriam Zarriga.
Shemy Tambiamon said bus services in the capital city should be operated by NCDC, to avoid such problems.
Guba Nou said: “A business is a business and if you go on strike due to circumstances, you harm your customers and no business has ever done that.
“NCDC sure has to have a backup service once the private sector is on strike. You are voted in by the people so always be there when needed.”
Hannah Aria commented: “Definitely something to fix up! There's a lot of politics involved in business so you can't get rid of these bus operations overnight.
“Let the private sector take the service, the private sector has always proven to bring better service and employment opportunities.
“Even though the public bus service is prone to fall victim to personal issues of their private owners and it’s totally unacceptable, I'm still a firm believer of expanding wealth and promoting local economical practices. It’s too late for NCDC to grab back the bus service but they are the Government and they have powers to introduce laws.”
Barnabas Orere Pondros said: “We need educated and intelligent police officers who do not go around bashing and killing people. Of course plan for an improved system but most strikes are results of police brutality.”
Mark Davis stated that: “The issue is not PMVs - they're the victims; the issue is the RPNGC.”
Gregory P Moses, on the other hand, said: “Though I sympathise with the bus drivers and their crews, they are the worst drivers and offenders in Port Moresby City, when it comes to traffic infringements.
“Some of them invite the brunt of the law and police brutality on themselves in their conduct. They like to stop and pick up where there are no bus stops and do things as if they own the roads. If they only follow the laws, then they will not be manhandled by police officers or law enforcers.”
Meanwhile, NCD metropolitan superintendent Ben Turi told Loop PNG that the deceased reportedly jumped out of a police vehicle in an attempt to escape detention after arrested for a traffic infringement.
(The once busy Gordon bus stop today)