Taxi council calls for increased police action as violence stalks Mabopane
SANTACO says they won’t stand by and allow criminals to infiltrate the taxi industry and put lives of innocent people at risk.
The taxi industry is calling for law enforcement to strengthen its presence and duty of keeping communities safe following several tragic shootings – the most recent being the slaying of two taxi owners in Mabopane, north of Pretoria.
The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) called for stronger law enforcement following acts of violence rocking the industry recently.
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Gauteng Provincial Secretary, Graham Fritz said SANTACO is deeply saddened by the recent acts of violence that have shaken communities and devastated members of the taxi industry.
“With heavy hearts, we extend our sincerest condolences to the families of those lost in tragic incidents in Mabopane and Hartbeespoort, where members of our industry were senselessly killed.”
He said fellow taxi industry members in Johannesburg, Sedibeng, and Ekurhuleni lost their lives in the past week.
“As an organisation dedicated to safeguarding the well-being and safety of our members, we are calling on law enforcement agencies to take immediate and decisive action in addressing the growing prevalence of crime within the taxi industry.”
He said the recent surge in violence against their members has reached an intolerable level. It is with deep concern that they urge law enforcement to increase patrols, launch thorough investigations, and implement stronger measures to ensure the safety of all taxi operators and their passengers.
Fritz said SANTACO Gauteng Chairman, Midday Mali expressed his profound sorrow: “Our hearts are broken by the loss of our colleagues and friends. These violent acts not only devastate families but also destabilise entire communities”.
“Even more tragic is the fact that, in some of these shootings, innocent civilians, including children, have lost their lives or sustained grievous harm.”
Mali said they cannot stand by and allow criminals to continue infiltrating the industry, putting the lives of innocent people at risk.
“We are calling for urgent and sustained action from law enforcement to restore the safety of all taxi industry members.”
Fritz said SANTACO Gauteng offers unwavering support to the affected families during this incredibly difficult time. He added that they remain committed to working closely with law enforcement and other stakeholders to combat the growing threats to the taxi industry.
“We believe that through collaboration and robust enforcement, we can restore peace and security to our communities,” he said.
“We also call on the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport to intensify efforts in resolving route-related conflicts, as these disputes are suspected of contributing to some of these heinous acts.
“We urge all concerned citizens, members of the taxi industry, and law enforcement to stand united in the fight against crime and violence,” said Fritz.
The chairman of that area was also shot at his residence pic.twitter.com/kn3ZcMjJIH
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The call comes as police are investigating the murder of two taxi owners in Mabopane on April 2.
SAPS Tshwane spokesperson Warrant Officer Marinda Austin said on Wednesday, at about 16:30, a sergeant of the Dube SAPS was returning home from work.
She said on her way, the sergeant observed a group of individuals gathered beside two bodies at the Engen garage in Central City.
“The sergeant promptly assumed control of the scene and contacted emergency medical services and Loate SAPS for assistance.”
She said the crime scene was secured, and forensic experts conducted a thorough examination for evidence and leads.
“Several spent cartridges were recovered by the crime scene management team.
The cartridges will be analysed as part of the investigation to determine if they can be linked to other incidents.
“Preliminary investigations suggest that a white Volkswagen carrying four occupants may be connected to the case.
“The motive for the crime remains under investigation.”
She said local police commander Major-General Samuel Thine commends the sergeant for her exemplary professionalism and dedication in serving the community.
Two taxi owners shot dead at a petrol station in Mabopane, Pretoria.#CrimeWatch pic.twitter.com/ACdQ4KroWv
— Yusuf Abramjee (@Abramjee) April 2, 2025
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