"Snake on a Bus!" Passenger shocked as python spotted slithering near fare box 

A bizarre incident aboard a Hong Kong bus left passengers and netizens stunned after a large snake was seen slithering near the fare collection box—with its head peeking out and tongue flicking just inches from the driver's seat.

The shocking discovery

Videos and photos that circulated online this week depicted a snake emerging near the Octopus card reader on what appears to be KMB’s Route 271, which runs between Tai Po (Fu Heng) and Jordan (West Kowloon Station).

The footage, shared in a Facebook group on June 9, showed the serpent’s tail wriggling beneath the driver’s seat while its head curiously inspected the fare box.

One netizen expressed their shock, saying it was terrifying to see a snake suddenly pop out while driving. 

Others expressed disbelief, questioning how a snake could even get on a bus. 

Some joked that the reptile was either hitchhiking for free or simply enjoying the air conditioning.

Driver’s quick response

According to KMB, the incident occurred around 8 a.m. on June 9 when the driver of an out-of-service bus spotted the snake while traveling along Tolo Highway.

The driver safely pulled over, reported the situation, and the bus was later escorted back to the depot. A professional snake catcher was called in and successfully removed the python, which is believed to have slithered aboard while the vehicle was parked overnight.

Netizens share their own horror stories

The incident sparked a wave of similar tales. One user recalled a particularly distressing experience, noting that encountering a snake was bad enough, but a flying cockroach suddenly appearing in their car and bouncing off the windows like a pinball was nearly unbearable.