By Akani Nkuna
Gauteng transport MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela has condemned the recent taxi-related shootings the province, calling for swift action to curb the bloodshed and restore safety within the public transport sector.
“These acts are viewed as both senseless and deeply disturbing, posing a serious threat to the safety and well-being of our communities… no form of dispute or disagreement justifies the use of violence. [We] call on all parties within the taxi industry to act with restraint and responsibility,” Diale-Tlabela said on Tuesday.
This comes in the wake of a deadly attack in Mabopane in Tshwane last week, where three taxi owners were fatally shot. According to reports, police believe the killings are linked to ongoing tensions within the taxi industry.
The police have since launched an investigation and opened three murder cases as part of the efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Diale-Tlabela said all stakeholders must fully support the investigations and commit to peaceful dialogue as the sole path to resolving disputes in the taxi industry.
“We remain committed to restoring calm and ensuring that Gauteng’s transport system remains safe, reliable, and free from intimidation or violence,” she added.
The Gauteng legislature’s portfolio committee on community safety has also expressed serious concern and outrage over the taxi violence, saying that the ongoing bloodshed has heightened fear and instability, while endangering the lives of commuters, taxi operators and affected communities.
“Such brazen acts of violence undermine the rule of law and threaten the safety of communities relying on the taxi industry for daily commuting to and from work as well as various destinations,” said committee chairperson Bandile Masuku.
Masuku confirmed that a formal request has been submitted to the provincial police commissioner seeking a comprehensive update on investigations into the killings.
He further emphasised the need for the provincial government to prioritise conflict-resolution efforts by addressing root causes and involving all stakeholders in finding sustainable solutions.
“The continued loss of life in the taxi industry is unacceptable and government should not allow criminality to dictate the operations for a sector that is the backbone of public transport in Gauteng,” Masuku said.
An urgent meeting has been scheduled this week between the transport department, the SA National Taxi Council and other stakeholders to strategise on effective interventions to restore safety and stability.
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