By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Robben Island Museum (RIM) has noted with concern a recent incident in which visitors sustained some injuries while travelling in the bus, during a standard tour of the island.
“We wish to extend our sincere apologies to the visitors, who were part of an organised group tour. RIM is committed to creating memorable experiences where visitors are treated with dignity and respect, with particular concern given to safety and comfort at all times. Safety and compliance to standards in all our operations is our key priority and if any of our staff or service providers undermine this objective, it will be addressed with the severity it warrants,” said Abigail Thulare, RIM CEO.
In line with standard operating procedures, all incidents are reported and in the case of this matter, and investigation was immediately launched to understand the turn of events and the circumstances surrounding the incident , said Thulare.
“Staff are being interviewed and statements taken, to ensure we get a comprehensive picture of what transpired, how to prevent a repeat of this and where processes need to be improved,” added Thulare.
RIM has recently embarked on a process of reviewing its business model, and a significant focus of this exercise was recognising the importance of improved access and inclusivity of the domestic market.
“We are currently engaging directly with the affected parties and will be inviting them back to the island to make good on what was supposed to be an exciting and memorable experience, particularly for the seniors in the group,” said Thulare.
Further updates will be provided upon conclusion of the process, concluded Thulare.
The group of 35 were excited for the day ahead after planning for the trip since December 2021.
The group, which included 22 seniors between the ages of 60 and 89, arrived on Robben Island on Wednesday morning, however, the excitement soon faded after they were left pained, bruised and bandaged.
Group leader and chairperson of the Gatesville neighbourhood watch Fowzia Veerasamy said everyone was looking forward to the trip.
However, things soon turned chaotic.
“The bus was already idling and the driver did not check the door. He got in, wrote down something and continued on his phone.
“He pulled away at speed and one of the seniors told me she hoped he drove well, as he was already at speed,” she said.
Veerasamy said there were loud screams as people shouted for the driver to stop, as the doors were still open.
The driver is alleged to have ignored the screams and continued on his journey. “As he continued driving the door ripped off. People got injured. The bus had no safety (belts).