A bus driver in Quito is facing public criticism after being filmed driving with a small child sitting on his lap while operating a public transport vehicle on a city roadway.
The video, which circulated widely on social media, shows the child placing their hands on the steering wheel while the bus continues moving.
According to online posts, the bus belongs to a cooperative that operates routes between Quito and the surrounding valleys.
The footage quickly sparked outrage among residents, with many users calling the situation dangerous and irresponsible. Critics said the driver put the child, passengers, and other motorists at risk.
The incident has also renewed concerns about safety standards and oversight within parts of Quito’s public transportation system.
Many social media users called for transit authorities to investigate the case and determine whether sanctions should be imposed against the driver or the transportation cooperative involved.
As of Tuesday evening, neither municipal transit authorities nor the transport cooperative had issued an official public statement regarding the video.
The case comes during a period of increased scrutiny of public transportation in Quito following recent disputes over fares, operating costs, and service disruptions across the capital.