The bus was stolen from Autopax’s Pretoria depot even before it could be equipped with a tracking device. According to reports the buses worth 2.8 million rands were left parked at the depot with only two unarmed guards keeping watch over them. The purloined 2009 model Mercedes-Benz with its YVV793GP registration plate had not yet been painted in its new official colours. The bus is one of a fleet of 570 that Autopax ordered with a view to the tournament.
Autopax is part of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) and is responsible for inter-city bus transport for Match, Fifa’s accommodation and hospitality agent and local organising committee, as well as for general transport for soccer fans. The bus was apparently signed out on the pretext of being taken for a test drive, but was never returned. The company says it is conducting an internal investigation and reviewing all its security measures.