Liège, Belgium – A spontaneous strike erupted on Saturday morning at multiple TEC depots in the province of Liège after an assault on a driver and two inspectors, the public transport company reported. The affected depots include Robermont, Jemeppe, Rocourt, Eupen, and Stembert, causing significant disruption to public transportation.
As a result of the strike, no buses have departed from these depots, impacting 89 of the 204 bus lines operating in the province. Commuters across Liège faced unexpected delays and cancellations as workers staged a walkout in response to the attack.
The violent incident occurred on Friday at around 17:20 when a TEC driver was forced to apply an emergency brake. Two inspectors were present to manage the situation when a group of individuals suddenly launched an attack on the driver.
According to TEC Liège-Verviers spokesperson Isabelle Tasset, the inspectors intervened to protect the driver, but one was also physically assaulted while the other suffered emotional trauma.
“The police intervened and arrested the leader of the assault. The three victims were taken to the hospital for necessary treatment,” Tasset stated.
TEC condemned the violence against its staff but also expressed regret over the sudden nature of the strike, which has heavily impacted passengers.
“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,” Tasset added.
Walloon Minister of Mobility, François Desquesnes, strongly denounced the attack, emphasizing that such acts of violence are “absolutely unacceptable.” He reminded the public that the Belgian Penal Code mandates doubled penalties for violence against public transport employees.
“In 2024, the Wallonia Transport Operator adopted a firm stance by systematically filing complaints and becoming a civil party in such cases,” Desquesnes said. He further announced plans to seek a meeting with the Liège public prosecutor’s office to ensure a thorough follow-up on the case.
As negotiations between TEC management and trade unions continue, it remains uncertain when normal bus services will resume. The strike underscores ongoing concerns over the safety of public transport employees and the need for stronger protections against violence in the sector.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
