A Groutville resident feared for his life as all four tyres of the stationary company bakkie he was driving were slashed by a spear-wielding man on the N2 close to the Umvoti Toll Plaza on Tuesday morning.

It is alleged the assailant was a KwaDukuza Taxi Association security guard.

Recounting the incident, driver Muzi Simamane said the incident occurred at around 6am when he was parked on the side of the road waiting for a colleague.

He was approached by some hitchhikers for a lift, but declined.

“Suddenly a white Corolla with KwaDukuza Taxi Association signage pulled up in front of me. Security guards got out and chased the hitchhikers with a sjambok. One of them, carrying a spear, approached my vehicle and without a word slashed all four tyres. They then just drove off,” said Simamane.

His employer, Hendrik Fourie of Jehcon Group, said he had to pay R8 170 to replace the damage tyres and is still awaiting the tow truck bill. A case of malicious damage of property was opened at Umhlali Saps and Fourie said he was told it would be transferred to the KwaDukuza police.

South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) provincial office manager Sifiso Shangase emphasised that no one was above the law.

“Security guards have a code of conduct to adhere to. Assault or damaging people’s property is a crime and the police should take action. We apologise for the incident as no one deserves to have their property damaged,” said Shangase.

Efforts to contact the KwaDukuza Taxi Association for comment were unsuccessful at the time of going to print.

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