Johannesburg -
A train driver was stabbed to death outside Hercules station in Pretoria, Metrorail said on Wednesday.
Spokeswoman Lillian Mofokeng said the driver identified as JP Du Plessis was found dead on Tuesday, with several stab wounds in a stationary train.
“The cause of this incident is not yet clear and will be fully investigated with immediate effect,” said spokeswoman Lillian Mofokeng.
Metrorail Gauteng provincial manager Tembela Kulu said train services would be suspended in Gauteng on New Year's Day in honour of Du Plessis.
"No train service will operate in Gauteng on the 1st of January 2013 in honour of Mr Du Plessis for the dedication and passion he had in serving our commuters," the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) said in a statement.
It added that trains would operate only until 6pm until January 4, as a preventative measure against recurrences of such incidents over the festive season.
"It is with great sadness and regret to learn of this unfortunate incident and as management we are of the view that one death is just too many to loose an employee on duty especially in this horrific manner," said Kulu.
Anyone with information that will assist the investigation and arrest of the perpetrators may contact the Prasa's Protection Services department on (012) 315 2566. - Sapa