Minibus Driver Detained After Forcibly Ejecting Teen Passenger in Omsk

A minibus driver in Omsk was detained after allegedly ejecting a 17-year-old passenger from the vehicle. This information comes from the regional department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, which oversees transport safety and law enforcement. The incident occurred in the Kirov district, where a student entered the minibus and attempted to pay the fare using an Omka card on her smartphone. According to officials, the driver claimed that such a payment method could cause the terminal to malfunction. The girl reportedly told the driver that she could not pay by any other means, but the driver proceeded to push her out of the minibus. The teenager was unharmed but shaken by the experience, and witnesses described the scene as abrupt and alarming. The driver was detained shortly after the incident and later apologized to the student. Law enforcement agencies are continuing their investigation, and prosecutors may consider bringing charges depending on the findings. In another recent case in the Urals, a former transit service supervisor was reported to have pushed a passenger onto the street, highlighting ongoing concerns about passenger safety and the handling of confrontations in public transport. According to investigators, both incidents underscore the need for clear procedures on fare disputes, passenger rights, and the responsibilities of drivers to ensure safe and respectful service for all travelers. The regional police have indicated that security footage, passenger statements, and the driver’s account will all play a role in determining accountability and possible legal action. Officials emphasise that any use of force by transport staff must be strictly limited, proportionate, and justified by safety considerations. The Omka payment system is designed for quick, contactless fare payments, but officials note that technical issues with mobile payment methods can arise, and it is standard practice to have alternative payment options available for travelers who encounter difficulties. Transport authorities advise operators to train staff to handle fare disagreements calmly, to document incidents accurately, and to report them promptly so proper investigations can proceed. The public is reminded that passenger welfare and lawful conduct remain the top priorities in urban transit, and any mistreatment or unlawful removal from a vehicle should be reported to authorities immediately for review and corrective action. This situation continues to be monitored by regional authorities as part of ongoing efforts to improve safety, accountability, and service quality in public transportation. (Source: regional Ministry of Internal Affairs)”