The association expressed deep concern by the continued state of violence within the taxi industry.
The scene after the shooting occurred at the Katlehong Shopping Centre. Picture: Kasie FM News
Two members from Katlehong People’s Taxi Association (Kapta) were reportedly killed, while another faced injuries, after a shooting incident behind the Katlehong Crossing taxi rank on Tuesday, 19 May 2026.
Police officials also reportedly recovered 60 cartridges on the scene.
Route disagreements
It is understood that unknown suspects fired multiple shots at the victims and intentionally blocked a seven-seater minibus while it was parked, before fleeing the scene.
According to Fritz Graham from the South African National Taxi Council (Santaco), during the incident, two patrol members were brutally shot and killed, while another patrol member sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment in hospital.
Another victim was reportedly rushed to hospital after armed suspects travelling in two vehicles opened fire on him and other association members. His condition is unknown at this stage.
“We wish him a speedy and full recovery during this difficult time.” said Graham.
3 victims
According to Kasie FM News, Kapta said that it is concerned about the continued taxi violence-related shootings, despite previous engagements between government officials and members of the taxi industry, aimed at resolving disputes within the sector.
Attempts to get a comment from the association were unsuccessful at the time of publishing. Any update will be included once received.
The shooting was allegedly linked to an ongoing route dispute between the association and the Zonkizizwe splinter group.
Police are now reportedly investigating two counts of murder and attempted murder, but no arrests have been made.
Officials told The Citizen that no police reports on the incident were logged.
Taxi violence
Taxi violence has posed a major challenge for the taxi industry, affecting operators, drivers, and commuters who rely on these services every day.
“We are relieved that no passengers or commuters were injured during the incident. However, the loss of life remains devastating, as two families have lost their loved ones and breadwinners in this senseless act of violence.” said Graham
According to Santaco officials, the deceased members were committed individuals who played an important role in maintaining order, safety, and stability within the taxi rank and surrounding operations.
“Their passing leaves a painful void within the industry and the community at large.”
The taxi industry strongly condemns this criminal act and calls upon the South African Police Service (Saps), Metro Police, and all relevant law enforcement agencies to intensify investigations and ensure that the perpetrators are urgently identified, arrested and brought to justice.
Recommendations
Fritz Graham from Santaco has urgently requested increased law enforcement visibility and patrols within the area to restore confidence and ensure the safety of commuters, operators, patrol members, and the broader community.
“We also call on authorities to thoroughly investigate the ongoing violent incidents that have been occurring in the area.”
“The continued acts of violence and criminality are creating fear, instability, and uncertainty within the community and public transport sector.”
Fritz also emphasised that immediate and decisive intervention is required to prevent further loss of life and restore peace and stability.
“The taxi industry remains committed to working together with law enforcement authorities and all stakeholders to promote peace, safety, and stability within our transport facilities and communities.”
Graham extended heartfelt condolences to the families, colleagues, and friends of the deceased during this painful period.
“May their souls rest in peace.” he concluded.
The impact
While in the North West, taxi drivers had blocked all main entrances and exits to the Mahikeng community on Monday morning as well.
A huge commotion ensued between taxi drivers and police after several taxis were towed to prevent further blockages and allow motorists to get to work and school.
According to SABC reports, the dispute stems from smaller e-hailing cars that take business away from taxi operators who rely on commuters to earn an income.
The taxi industry
According to the African Journal of Criminology and Victimology, which was published this year, South Africa has experienced an increase in violence amongst taxi associations and operators.
These factors are largely driven by a perceived intolerance of competition, which has created a violence endemic in the taxi industry where the competition primarily occurs between rival taxi associations for lucrative routes.
While key findings have indicated that violence in the taxi industry is largely due to the absence of effective formal state regulation. Based on data that was collected by interviewing commuters, this violence has resulted in feelings of insecurity, particularly amongst females.
Along with several cases of injury and death, which have negatively impacted commuters’ physiological well-being, were also documented. This emphasises the need and significance of regulation within the minibus industry to not only protect the lives of passengers but also those of the drivers.
