A BUS operator has warned it may be forced to withdraw services in a Scottish town after reports of youths “terrorising” bus drivers and passengers.
McGill’s Buses said groups of youths have been ripping out seats and launching missiles at the vehicles in Paisley.
A spokesperson said they may have no choice but to terminate the 26 service in the town centre after 6pm because of mounting trouble in Glenburn and Nethercraigs.
The transport operator has now experienced more than 60 similar incidents this year – reporting the cost of repairs to windows, panels and seats to be in the region of £160,000.
The situation has become so serious some drivers have made the decision to leave their jobs, rather than work under the threat of such attacks.
A McGill’s spokesperson said: “Suspending services is always a last resort. However, the safety of our passengers, staff, and other road users is our top priority.
“Due to the recent increase in attacks on our drivers and vehicles, we are unfortunately at a point where this action may be unavoidable unless there is an immediate improvement.
“We are in close contact with Police Scotland on this issue and have alerted local councillors and MSPs. CCTV footage of many of the perpetrators has already been provided to the police.
“These kinds of attacks would not be tolerated on cafes or shops, and buses should be no exception.
“If we are forced to suspend services, it is law-abiding passengers and local communities who depend on these essential services who will suffer the most.
“We are committed to working with the police and others to prevent this outcome.”
In an email to elected members earlier this week, McGill’s said staff and customers had been subjected to “another weekend of running the gauntlet” after the group targeted its buses.
Seats were ripped out and objects launched on Friday in scenes which continued on Saturday with “youths terrorising drivers and passengers” – attempting to immobilise buses by opening engine and emergency doors.
The company has installed upgraded assault alarms on its fleet but has conceded it is now at the stage where people’s safety is at risk.
It believes the only obvious solution is to stop operating services in the evening when and where these incidents are taking place.
Renfrewshire councillor Eddie Devine, who represents Paisley Southeast, said: “It’s not acceptable and that’s putting it politely.
“It cannot go on. Something has to be done by the authorities to put an end to this.
“Some of these people seem to be out of control and nobody seems to be trying to rectify the situation.
“I’m absolutely furious that this is still going on.”
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “We are aware of anti-social behaviour on buses in the Paisley area.
“We are liaising with the bus company and partner agencies to address the issues.
“Officers are carrying out additional patrols in the affected areas to reassure the public and trace those responsible.”
Anyone who witnesses or has concerns about this type of behaviour should contact police on 101.
