Pensioner wins court case against Prasa after train robbery injury

A PENSIONER has won a legal battle to hold the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) liable for injuries sustained during a robbery on a Metrorail train en route to Retreat Station.

- MERCURY CORRESPONDENT

The Western Cape High Court found Prasa liable for the proven or agreed damages suffered by 72-year-old Jacob Barnett, who was struck in the face by a brick during the incident.

"I am satisfied that the plaintiff has proven his case and that it was the defendant's failure to safeguard the plaintiff whilst he was a passenger on the train that ultimately resulted in the injuries he sustained," the court ruled. "I am unable to find that the plaintiff could have done anything to prevent the attack. He was an innocent passenger."

Barnett is seeking R100 000 for past and future medical expenses and R500,000 in general damages. The quantum of damages will be determined at a later court date.