The Funen-based flex transport company LS Busser has stopped driving for FynBus, Sydtrafik and Midttrafik after its operating capital was seized, affecting around 400 children in school and special programs as well as sick and elderly passengers.
According to reporting by DR, the company announced the halt in a press release on September 2. LS Busser said its operating capital has been seized, leaving no liquidity to pay wages, fuel and other operating costs.
DR notes that the shutdown comes one week after LS Busser was criticized in the DR program Kontant. In the broadcast, several former drivers described cheating with inspections carried out by the transport companies.
The drivers also said they were asked to swap vehicles before inspections. Other allegations concerned false course certificates for disability transport and inadequate servicing of assistive equipment such as stair-climbing machines.
The three transport companies responded by tightening their supervision of the flextrafik supplier. LS Busser has also faced criticism over its patient transport, including the case of a man who was found dead after a hospital visit.
TV 2 Fyn reported that drivers had not been paid for August. The outlet stated this may have contributed to the transport problems seen in recent days.
Transport companies work on contingency plans
Earlier on September 2, a number of flex trips at Midttrafik, Sydtrafik and FynBus were cancelled because of capacity problems. Midttrafik said same-day flex trips in Midtjylland were disrupted by capacity issues with suppliers, as reported by TV 2 Østjylland.
At Sydtrafik, press officer Louise Christine said LS Busser is a relatively large supplier. She said it will likely have consequences for operations if all vehicles are withdrawn, and that prioritizing trips may become necessary.
FynBus chairman Tim Vermund said he welcomes a clean-up of the industry and supports the work of the police. He acknowledged that it leaves FynBus in the difficult position of keeping flex transport running.
Vermund said FynBus has a contingency plan ready and that essential trips, such as patient transport, will be prioritized. He said the company has worked around the clock, because it knew this scenario was possible.
In the press release, LS Busser owner Omran Khaled Abdel Rahman wrote that the company has been accused of a great deal in the media. He said the company has concentrated on providing reliable transport for citizens.
LS Busser stated that around 400 children in school and special programs are affected, along with sick and elderly people and others with special transport needs. DR said it was working to obtain comments from Fyn Police and Midttrafik.
