Despite a video showing a man wearing an Ivory Park Taxi Association (IPTA) reflector jacket firing gunshots at protesters, the association has attempted to distance itself from the individual, though not entirely from the incident.
In the footage, the man is seen chasing community members protesting in Ivory Park and firing several shots, seemingly to disperse the crowd and clear a path for taxis.
The incident occurred on September 11, during a protest by Ivory Park residents over water supply issues in the area, following strike action in nearby Ebony Park.
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Association chairperson Vusi Macheke has condemned the shooting, stating that IPTA does not condone violence.
“Maybe the man could be someone who was fired for misconduct within the association and still has our regalia, such as the reflector he was wearing. Or he could be one of those who take advantage during protests and try to ruin the good reputation of the association,” said Macheke.
IPTA general secretary Eric Dlamini echoed Macheke’s sentiments and expressed shock at the footage, confirming that the reflector jacket seen in the video does indeed belong to the association.
He added that the shooter has not yet been identified, but if he is found to be an active member, there would be consequences.
“At the moment, we can’t categorically state that he is one of our active members. But once he has been positively identified, adequate action will be taken. No one has the right to open fire in public, especially if he is not in danger from the other person they are shooting,” Dlamini said.
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He noted that on the day of the protest, scores of customers were left stranded as community members blocked the taxi rank gates with burning tyres and rocks, preventing taxis from operating.
Dlamini also reported that there were attempts to stone and torch three IPTA vehicles, but the association managed to intervene before any damage occurred.
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