Taxi violence erupts at Newcastle Mall

Violence erupted at the Newcastle Mall this afternoon when rival taxi associations used knobkerries and metal pipes to give their arguments a bit of extra emphasis.

Police presence was required to diffuse tension that might have otherwise led to bloodshed.

Witnesses say the reason for the hostility between the two taxi associations boiled down to a battle for the route from the Newcastle Mall to town.
While shoppers seemed unmindful to the violence, a large mob of incensed taxi drivers gathered in the parking lot amid families with their children.

Even though the mob was eventually convinced to disperse peacefully, tensions were still high when taxi drivers resumed business.Mall management was sent a written request to comment on safety of patrons at the mall and asked about why the taxi drop off behind the mall is still not being put to use.

Centre manager, Hester Malan, responded, “The Newcastle Mall management does not condone or welcome any form of violence at the Mall.”

“We are currently awaiting the issuing of permits by the Department of Transport in order for the Mall’s taxi rank to become fully operational. For the interim, a temporary measure was put in place whereby taxi drivers may use a designated area within the Mall’s parking area to drop off or pick up commuters. We communicate on a regular basis with the Amajuba Taxi Association regarding any matter or concerns in this regard,” she explained.

Mrs Malan thanked the local traffic department and SAPS for their assistance and quick response.

“We will continue to work with them to minimise and eliminate incidents such as these,” said Mrs Malan.

“Safety is a high priority for the Mall and additional security has been put in place over the festive season to ensure the safety of all at the Newcastle Mall.”