Port Moresby PMV bus strike

PMVs resume operations in Port Moresby

Despite their plan to halt operations until their grievance is addressed by relevant authorities, a few buses took to the road this morning and by midday, operations were in full swing.

PMV operators and drivers went on strike on Monday afternoon after one of their colleagues was allegedly assaulted by police.

According to an eyewitness, the bus driver was assaulted by police officers after he had turned his bus at a wrong corner, causing traffic congestion.

Relatives want truth about PMV driver’s death

The late Kissa was picked up by police last Tuesday (Dec 13) over an alleged traffic infringement at the traffic lights near the Bisini soccer fields in Port Moresby. While transporting him to the Boroko Police Station, he allegedly jumped out of the moving police van.

Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries the next afternoon (Dec 14), which resulted in PMV operators grounding their buses in protest on Thursday (Dec 15).

Public divided on PMV bus strike

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.