The abandoned Volvo, parked at the Bram Fischer International Airport at Bloemfontein for the past ten years, will remain at the airport where the owner has parked it until legal processes are concluded.

The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) acknowledged the presence of this abandoned vehicle, however, their role was limited to notification and coordination with the relevant authorities.

“The reasons for the vehicle being abandoned remains unknown to us, as airports are public spaces with diverse traffic and activities. We understand that abandoned vehicles are not uncommon globally, and the removal process can be time-consuming due to legal procedures and protocols,” said ACSA’s media relations consultant, Thea Govindsamy.

The abandoned Volvo. Photo: Facebook screengrab

“It is essential to adhere to legal requirements and by-laws when addressing such matters, and ACSA handles such cases through our legal department to ensure compliance with regulations.”

Netwerk24 reported that the Volvo belonged to a Chinese citizen who worked in Lesotho and left it parked at the airport when he left for China. The vehicle does not have number plates or a license disk on the windscreen.

Free State police spokesperson Loraine Earle confirmed that the vehicle belonged to a Chinese citizen who left it at the airport and when questioned about the vehicle he said he was no longer interested in it.

The abandoned Volvo is even visible on this satellite image. 

OFM News asked the media relations consultant about what will happen to the vehicle now, and she said: “The company will keep the vehicle until legal processes are finalised for implementation.”

“The vehicle was noticed timeously, hence management commenced with the internal management processes,” added Govindsamy when asked about why the vehicle was parked for such a long time.

“The outcome of the legal process will dictate the final decision on whether ACSA will sell the vehicle to settle the debt” incurred.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame cg