A bus conductor who physically assaulted two schoolgirls has turned himself over to the police. The man at the centre of the controversy remains in lock-up over a viral video that captured the abuse on a bus and led to public outrage.
Law enforcement sources confirmed that the conductor made contact with officers before reporting to the Half-Way Tree Police Station. Following his arrival, he was arrested. Not long after, police, with an escort team, transferred the detainee to the Kingston Central Police Station. Reports say he is currently being processed in connection with the assault at the location.
The matter stems from a widely circulated clip capturing a violent confrontation aboard a public passenger bus operating within the Corporate Area. The footage shows two students of Queen’s High School involved in an altercation with the conductor.
One of the girls appears to be seated next to the window while the man struck her repeatedly. The second student, who attempts to intervene, is also engaged during the confrontation. She appears to be defending her schoolmate by hitting the man, who strikes her as well.
Several other passengers, including students and what appeared to be adults, were present on the bus at the time. Their reactions, which include shouting and attempts to intervene, can be heard in the background of the recording as the situation unfolds.
The incident has triggered strong reactions across social media. Many are condemning the use of force against minors and calling for swift action from authorities.
Police say preliminary checks suggest that the man now in custody is the same individual seen in the video. However, investigators are continuing their work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the altercation.
Authorities are appealing to members of the public who may have witnessed the incident or have additional information to come forward as the probe continues.