SANTACO Gauteng is deeply saddened by the recent acts of violence that have shaken our communities and devastated our members in the taxi industry. With heavy hearts, we extend our sincerest condolences to the families of those lost in tragic incidents in Mabopane and Hartebeespoort, where members of our industry were senselessly killed yesterday.
Our grief extends to the tragic murders of fellow taxi industry members in Johannesburg, Sedibeng and Ekurhuleni, who also lost their lives in the past week. As an organization dedicated to safeguarding the well-being and safety of our members, we are calling on law enforcement agencies to take immediate and decisive action in addressing the growing prevalence of crime within the taxi industry.
The recent surge in violence against our members has reached an intolerable level and it is with deep concern that we urge law enforcement to increase patrols, launch thorough investigations and implement stronger measures to ensure the safety of all taxi operators and their passengers.
SANTACO Gauteng Chairman, Midday Mali, expressed his profound sorrow, stating: “Our hearts are broken by the loss of our colleagues and friends. These violent acts not only devastate families but also destabilize entire communities. Even more tragic is the fact that, in some of these shootings, innocent civilians, including children, have lost their lives or sustained grievous harm. We cannot stand by and allow criminals to continue infiltrating the industry, putting the lives of innocent people at risk. We are calling for urgent and sustained action from law enforcement to restore the safety of all taxi industry members.”
As we offer our unwavering support to the affected families during this incredibly difficult time, we remain committed to working closely with law enforcement and other stakeholders to combat the growing threats to the taxi industry. We believe that through collaboration and robust enforcement, we can restore peace and security to our communities.
“We also call on the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport to intensify efforts in resolving route-related conflicts, as these disputes are suspected of contributing to some of these heinous acts,” added Mali.
We urge all concerned citizens, members of the taxi industry and law enforcement to stand united in the fight against crime and violence.
Issued by SANTACO Gauteng
