Gauteng Transport MEC condemns senseless taxi violence after Soweto shooting

Gauteng Transport MEC condemns senseless taxi violence after Soweto shooting! Gauteng Transport MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela has strongly condemned the ongoing violence in the taxi industry following the latest deadly incident in Soweto, where three taxi marshals were shot, one of them fatally.

The incident has once again cast a spotlight on the long-standing and deeply entrenched issue of taxi-related violence in South Africa’s most populous province. The MEC has called on the South African Police Service (SAPS) to urgently investigate and bring those responsible to justice.

A Tragic Incident Amid a Pattern of Violence

The attack, which took place in an area historically plagued by taxi-related disputes and turf wars, claimed the life of one patroller and left the community shaken. While the motive behind the shooting has not yet been confirmed, it is believed to be linked to ongoing rivalries within the minibus taxi industry—a sector often marred by conflict over routes, associations, and competition.

The MEC described the incident as disturbing and unacceptable, adding that such violence threatens not only those within the industry but the safety and stability of entire communities who rely heavily on taxis for daily transport.

Soweto shooting

“This violence is not only senseless but deeply disturbing,” said Diale-Tlabela. “It disrupts lives, instills fear in communities, and undermines the efforts of those working towards stability in the sector.”

Call for Swift Action by Law Enforcement

Diale-Tlabela urged police to prioritize the investigation and apprehend the individuals behind the attack. She emphasized that acts of violence must not be allowed to continue unchecked, and she expressed concern over the frequency of such incidents in areas like Soweto.

“She strongly condemns the violence, the use of shootings and killings as a means to resolve disputes,” said her spokesperson, Lesiba Mpya. “She has added that no form of disagreement justifies the use of violence.”

The MEC’s office has also called on all stakeholders in the taxi industry, including associations and operators, to recommit themselves to dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution, and to reject violence in all its forms.

Taxi Violence: A Long-Standing Challenge

Taxi violence in South Africa, and particularly in Gauteng, has been a chronic problem for decades. Disputes over lucrative routes, leadership rivalries, and competition among associations have frequently erupted into violent clashes, resulting in injuries, loss of life, and widespread fear.

In recent years, the government has made various efforts to mediate disputes through regulatory reforms and the establishment of conflict resolution forums. Despite these attempts, violent incidents continue to flare up—particularly in densely populated areas such as Soweto, where taxi transport is a primary mode of commuting.

The incident comes amid renewed discussions around industry reform and formalization, with government hoping to transform the taxi sector into a more structured, safer component of the country’s public transport system.

Communities Caught in the Crossfire

For ordinary residents, the violence often spills over, disrupting daily life and creating an environment of fear. Commuters are sometimes caught in the middle of disputes, and drivers and marshals often work in fear for their safety. Community leaders and civil society groups have consistently urged authorities to do more to curb the bloodshed and bring about long-term peace.

“Taxi-related violence poses a direct threat to the well-being of our communities,” Diale-Tlabela noted. “We cannot allow our transport systems to be hijacked by criminal elements and those who believe violence is a solution.”

Commitment to Peace and Reform

The Gauteng Department of Transport has reiterated its commitment to promoting peaceful engagement within the taxi industry, including strengthening conflict mediation mechanisms and working closely with both SAPS and local taxi associations.

“We will not stand by while violence threatens lives and disrupts our province,” said Mpya. “The MEC is calling on all industry leaders to take a firm stance against any form of violence and ensure that disagreements are resolved through proper, lawful channels.”

The investigation into the Soweto shooting is ongoing, and the MEC has pledged her full support to police efforts to hold the perpetrators accountable.