A spontaneous strike broke out on Saturday morning at the TEC depots in Robermont, Jemeppe, Rocourt, Eupen, and Stembert in the province of Liège, following an assault on a driver and two inspectors, the public transport company reported.
No buses are leaving these depots, affecting 89 out of 204 lines in the province.
“At around 17:20 yesterday, an emergency brake had to be applied by a driver. Two inspectors were present to help coordinate the situation. Suddenly, several individuals attacked the driver, hitting him. The inspectors managed to secure the driver, but one of them was also hit and the other is deeply shocked,” said Isabelle Tasset, spokesperson for TEC Liège-Verviers. “The police intervened and arrested the leader of the assault.” The three victims were taken to the hospital for necessary treatment.
“TEC understands the emotional reaction caused by yesterday’s assault on our staff. No assault on our personnel can be tolerated. However, TEC regrets the unannounced nature of this action impacting our customers. A meeting is ongoing between management and trade unions,” the spokesperson continued.
The Walloon Minister of Mobility, François Desquesnes, also condemned the violence, stating that such aggression is absolutely unacceptable. He reminded that the Penal Code prescribes doubled penalties for acts of violence against public transport drivers and employees. Since 2024, the Wallonia Transport Operator files complaints and becomes a civil party in such cases.
François Desquesnes will seek a prompt meeting with the Liège public prosecutor’s office to follow up on these incidents.
