Seven Shot in Central Johannesburg Taxi Violence, Death Toll Rises to Seven in Gauteng

In a tragic escalation of taxi-related violence, seven people were shot at a taxi rank in central Johannesburg on Thursday morning. Four individuals were declared dead at the scene, while three others were injured and transported to the hospital. This incident brings the total number of shooting deaths at Gauteng taxi ranks this week to seven.

The Shooting Incident

The shooting occurred at a taxi rank near Doornfontein, where an unknown number of suspects opened fire on bystanders. According to Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi, the suspects were driving a white BMW and began “shooting randomly” at the rank. The deceased were identified as taxi drivers, while the injured included two passengers and a university student waiting for a bus.

“The shooting is suspected to be taxi violence related, and the matter will be investigated by the Provincial Taxi Violence Unit,” Nevhuhulwi confirmed. As of 11 am on Thursday, no arrests had been made, but police have identified the vehicle used by the suspects.

Second Incident in a Week

This shooting marks the second such incident in Gauteng this week. On Wednesday, three people were killed at a taxi rank south of Vosloorus. The ongoing violence has raised concerns about safety and stability within the taxi industry, a critical component of South Africa’s public transport system.

East London Taxi Boss Arrested

In a related development, a taxi boss was arrested in East London on Wednesday in connection with murders and extortion linked to the taxi industry. The arrest followed a lengthy investigation led by a specialised team of investigators and operational units.

“The suspect is a taxi boss in the Eastern Cape and is also allegedly involved in several taxi-related incidences in the province,” said police spokesperson Major-General Nonkululeko Phokane. The arrest is part of broader efforts to address crime within the taxi industry, which has been plagued by violence and extortion.

National Taxi Violence Task Team

To combat the rising tide of taxi-related violence, a National Taxi Violence and Extortion Task Team was established. The task force is tasked with investigating and addressing crimes within the industry, including shootings, extortion, and other forms of violence. The recent incidents in Gauteng and the arrest in East London underscore the urgent need for decisive action to restore order and safety.

The shooting in central Johannesburg is a stark reminder of the challenges facing South Africa’s taxi industry. With seven people shot in Gauteng this week, including four fatalities, the need for effective intervention is more pressing than ever. As investigations continue and arrests are made, the focus must remain on ensuring the safety of commuters and drivers alike. The establishment of the National Taxi Violence Task Team is a step in the right direction, but sustained efforts will be required to address the root causes of violence and bring lasting peace to the industry.

{Source The Citizen}

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