TAXI drivers and owners came to the rescue last night and dispersed crowds of people who tried looting the Hammarsdale Junction last night, June 6.

The taxi operators fired shots in the air to remove the crowd of about a 100 people.

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Nkosinathi Majola, Ward 6 councillor, condemned the incident and thanked the taxi operators who were among the first responders to contain this situation.

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=348538677233437&extid=CL-UNK-UNK-UNK-AN_GK0T-GK1C&ref=sharing

“I am thankful to them that there was no damage done. As we speak now, everything is operating smoothly; it is quiet and peaceful in the area.”

Majola said people should learn to address their grievances in a peaceful manner rather than resorting to violence.

“This mall was looted last year, and this second incident would have crippled it even worse. They are gambling with people’s jobs,” he said.

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According to Majola, the mall employs about 2 000 people in the area.

“This criminal element is just setting everyone back and hurting the community. We should be the ones protecting it,” he said.

Majola thanked the outer-west councillors who also played a role in calming the situation.

“I also wish to thank the police for their quick response and that they stand guard,” he added.