TSSA comment on violent death of London bus driver

Transport union TSSA has described as ‘tragic’ the death of a London bus driver as police begin a murder investigation after a man was arrested.  

Sergei Krajev, who was 64, died on Tuesday after being found critically injured near his bus on Battersea Bridge on Monday evening. He was taken to hospital by air ambulance.  

TSSA has been at the forefront of a campaign to protect transport workers in the face of escalating threats, abuse and violence. 

Commenting, TSSA General Secretary, Maryam Eslamdoust said: “Sergei’s death is shocking and tragic. As a union with many members on the front line of our transport networks we feel this loss deeply.  

“We have long been clear that solidarity is not enough – we need to see action which will keep transport workers safe. Over many months we have seen attacks, intimidation and abuse rising to unprecedented levels. 

“The way forward it to greatly increase the investment in the British Transport Police, along with a ban on lone working – not just at night, and banning orders to remove violent offenders permanently from public transport. 

“The bottom line is transport workers must feel safe and respected while performing their essential duties. Violence, harassment, and abuse must never be considered “part of the job’.”