Not one arrest to date – in connection with taxi-related violence in Zwelihle that happened over the past year – is raising concern among commuters.
“People are fearful because it seems that those believed to have information about the shootings are being taken out,” said a source with close links to the taxi industry.
He questioned why the CCTV cameras at the rank weren’t operational and why certain taxis were allegedly not seen at the rank at the time of the shooting.
Police sources have confirmed that taxi owner Thamsanqa ‘Thami’ Mcinjana, killed two weeks ago, was a complainant in the extortion case that led to the arrest of six members of the Overstrand Taxi Association (OTA), including the organisation’s chairman, Lucky Meje.
Another taxi owner gunned down recently is also believed to have been a witness in the case.
The power struggle between the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA) and OTA is believed to have sparked the outbreak of taxi violence last year when well-known taxi owner Jeffrey Alam was killed at the Zwelihle Taxi Rank. Alam’s wife Julia was gunned down in the parking lot at the back of the Whale Coast Mall in August, six months after her husband’s murder.
The latest incidents have left the community, especially commuters who rely on taxis, concerned about their safety. Some are calling for more reliable public transport options such as buses.
A public member with past involvement in the taxi industry voiced the concern of many others. “How many more families must lose fathers, sons, brothers and friends before we say enough is enough?
“What happens when this violence moves beyond the communities where it has been happening for years and reaches other parts of our town? Will there then be political will to act?” he asked.
The Western Cape Mobility Department has expressed concern about the violence and its impact on residents, commuters and the minibus-taxi industry.
Acting spokesperson for MEC Isaac Sileku, Byron la Hoe, said the safety of residents and commuters remains a priority.
“The department is working with SAPS’ law enforcement, the Overstrand Municipality and relevant transport authorities to stabilise the situation, prevent further violence and ensure that public transport can operate safely,” he said, adding that measures included increased law-enforcement action against illegal activities, as well as reviewing relevant operating licences and regulatory matters. “The department is also engaging with the taxi industry and other stakeholders to help address the tensions and support a peaceful resolution,” he concluded.
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