Two men have faced strong condemnation after being captured on video performing a perilous 'bus surfing' stunt, where they clung to the back of a moving double-decker to secure a free ride. The incident, which unfolded on Mollison Way in Burnt Oak, Edgware, saw the pair holding on as the bus accelerated to speeds of up to 30 miles per hour.
Risky Ride to Avoid Fare Payment
The dangerous act, commonly known as bus surfing, is often undertaken to evade paying bus fares. In this case, the men targeted a red double-decker operating as the Number 114 service, which travels from Mill Hill to Ruislip. They only detached themselves when the bus was forced to halt in traffic, highlighting the extreme risks involved.
Attempts to Conceal Identities
Upon realising they were being recorded by a passenger in a trailing vehicle, the duo scrambled to hide their faces. One man shielded his face with his hand, while the other quickly pulled up his hood in a futile attempt to avoid identification. The 12-second clip, which has since circulated online, ends shortly after the pair were spotted, leaving viewers shocked by their brazen actions.
Local Reactions and Safety Concerns
Local residents expressed a mix of disbelief and concern over the stunt. One person joked that the country's pothole-ridden roads could have been their downfall, stating, 'The lengths people will go to save a tap on the Oyster card. Two guys casually hitching a free ride on the back of the 114 bus. Honestly, the grip strength required to hold on while the bus is moving is impressive. But one pothole and this could have ended terribly.'
Another local remarked, 'Same guys who will be wearing expensive tracksuits and talk about making and spending a lot of money,' highlighting the irony of risking lives over a small fare. A third simply noted, '£1.75,' underscoring the minimal cost of an adult pay-as-you-go ticket on Transport for London services, which is just £1.75 per journey.
Broader Implications and Official Response
This incident raises serious safety issues, as bus surfing not only endangers the individuals involved but also poses risks to other road users and passengers. Transport for London has been approached for comment on the matter, though no official statement has been released yet. The stunt serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with fare evasion and reckless behaviour on public transport.
Authorities are likely to review such cases to prevent future occurrences, emphasising the importance of adhering to safety regulations and paying fares properly. The public is urged to report any similar incidents to ensure the safety and integrity of transport services across London.
