London Bus Drivers Fear for Their Safety Following Recent Violent Attacks

Concerns over driver safety have intensified across London's bus network after two serious incidents occurred within a matter of weeks, including the death of one driver and the stabbing of another.

Bus workers and union representatives argue that current safety measures are inadequate and that growing pressures within the industry are leaving drivers increasingly vulnerable.

The latest concerns follow the death of 64-year-old bus driver Sergei Krajev, who was assaulted near a bus stop on Battersea Bridge during the early hours of May 18. Emergency services discovered him with critical injuries and he later died in hospital. Less than two weeks later, another driver was stabbed in the arm while waiting to begin his shift in Southall.

The incidents have prompted renewed criticism from drivers, many of whom say they no longer feel safe while carrying out their duties. Former London bus driver Kevin Mustafa described a workforce shaken by the attacks and worried about their own wellbeing.

According to Mustafa, drivers are often left alone at remote bus stands during unsociable hours, creating situations where they can become easy targets. He believes the profession has undergone a significant decline in public respect, contributing to an atmosphere where abuse and intimidation have become increasingly common.

Official figures from Transport for London reveal that 939 bus drivers were assaulted between 2014 and 2025, averaging more than six incidents every month. Around one assault per month resulted in a driver requiring hospital treatment.

A current driver, who asked not to be identified, said mounting operational pressures are also contributing to tensions. He explained that drivers are expected to maintain tight schedules while dealing with overcrowded services, fare evasion and growing levels of passenger frustration.

While TfL advises drivers not to leave their secure cabs or engage in confrontations, the driver argued that the reality is often more complicated. Fare evasion remains widespread, he said, with many passengers boarding without paying. Although drivers are instructed not to challenge offenders, the repeated disregard for the rules contributes to feelings of disrespect and frustration among staff.

The driver also highlighted practical concerns relating to cab design. Ventilation openings that were sealed during the COVID-19 pandemic have reportedly made communication with passengers more difficult, forcing some drivers to open cab doors to hear questions or concerns. He believes this increases the risk of conflict and potential assaults.

Beyond safety, drivers have raised broader concerns about working conditions across the network. Many argue that reductions in bus services have increased overcrowding, placing additional pressure on both staff and passengers. Some have called for greater investment in public transport, more visible ticket inspections and an expansion of bus services to reduce congestion and improve reliability.

Access to basic welfare facilities remains another significant issue. Drivers report that many route termini lack toilet facilities, leaving some workers with few options during long shifts. Critics say these conditions demonstrate a lack of consideration for the wellbeing of frontline transport staff.

Industrial relations tensions continue elsewhere across London's bus network. At Bow Garage, hundreds of Stagecoach drivers remain involved in an ongoing dispute over scheduling practices, break arrangements and working hours. Unite the union claims drivers are being asked to undertake lengthy shifts with insufficient recovery time, raising concerns about both employee welfare and passenger safety.

Responding to the recent attacks, Transport for London expressed its condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Sergei Krajev and extended support to the driver injured in Southall. TfL stated that the safety and security of transport workers remains a priority and that support is being provided to those affected by the incidents.

However, many drivers believe further action is required to restore confidence among the workforce. They argue that stronger protections, improved working conditions and increased investment in the bus network are essential if the profession is to remain safe and attractive for future generations of drivers.