Passenger punches bus driver in Lanzarote, sparking chaos on board
A passenger on an intercity bus in Lanzarote attacked the driver during a journey last month, striking him in the face and attempting to tamper with the vehicle’s controls after being refused an unscheduled stop. The incident took place on 16th July on Line 62 between Arrecife, Tías and Playa Blanca.
The confrontation began shortly after leaving the main station in Arrecife, when the man demanded the driver open the doors so he could get off in a non-designated area. When the request was refused, he forced open the protective screen around the driver in an aggressive manner. The driver urged him to contact the police if he disagreed, but the passenger dismissed this and continued to argue.
The situation escalated further when the man punched the driver while the bus was still moving. He also tried to interfere with one of the vehicle’s controls to force the doors open, creating panic among travellers, who shouted warnings as the struggle unfolded.
Despite the aggression, the driver managed to keep control of the bus until it reached Tías, around 10 kilometres away, where Local Police removed the man from the vehicle. Witnesses later commended the driver for his calm and professional handling of the dangerous situation.
Calls for greater protection
The drivers’ union condemned the attack and warned that assaults on drivers are becoming increasingly common. They have called on the Lanzarote Cabildo and the bus operator to boost safety with clearer rules, more police at busy stops, and greater respect for drivers.
Union representatives argue that bus drivers, who work daily in direct contact with the public, face inadequate protection and should not be subjected to repeated incidents of violence.
Just weeks later, on 10th August, another serious altercation occurred on Line 03 between Costa Teguise and Puerto del Carmen, when an intoxicated passenger harassed others on board. Guardia Civil officers were called to the scene, and the man was identified before leaving the area.
New passenger regulations approved
Coinciding with the July assault, Lanzarote’s Cabildo approved a new Passenger Regulation for public bus services, designed to modernise the system and enhance safety. The updated rules ban smoking and alcohol consumption on board, restricts misuse of electronic devices, and permits access for bicycles, scooters, and pets.
The new rules also reinforce the authority of drivers, with fines of up to €6,000 for serious offences. Cabildo officials described the regulation as a step towards a safer, more sustainable, and inclusive public transport system for residents and visitors.
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