MOKOPANE – Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has issued a stern warning against acts of violence, intimidation, and harassment linked to the taxi industry, cautioning that such criminal behaviour will not be tolerated.

She recently urged all individuals affected by taxi-related violence and harassment to report these incidents to the police so that cases can be properly registered and thoroughly investigated.

She further expressed serious concern about complainants who later withdraw cases or fail to avail themselves during investigations, stating that this practice undermines the criminal justice process and emboldens perpetrators. This follows an incident that occurred on December 14 on the R101.

“It is alleged that taxi patrol vehicles from a local taxi association attempted to stop another vehicle. The driver of this vehicle apparently fled the scene after being attacked and being forced off the road by one of the patrol vehicles. He subsequently lost control of his vehicle, and collided head-on with a luxury vehicle,” said Hadebe, and added that three vehicles were involved in the collision.

The male passenger in the man’s vehicle sustained minor injuries, while the two occupants of the luxury vehicle were also treated for minor injuries.

“As part of ongoing investigations, two taxi patrol vehicles linked to the incident were confiscated by the provincial taxi violence task team, and cases of reckless and negligent driving and attempted murder have been opened. At this stage, no arrests have been made, pending the finalisation of investigations,” said Hadebe.

She confirmed that the provincial taxi violence task team has managed to stabilise incidents involving the harassment of motorists by taxi patrol vehicles, particularly in the Mokopane area, where motorists are often accused of illegally transporting passengers.

She has since ordered an extensive investigation into all such incidents, reiterating that the harassment of motorists and the taking of the law into one’s own hands will never be condoned.

“We have secured several convictions related to taxi violence, and these must serve as a deterrent. We will continue to deal decisively and harshly with anyone who ignores our calls to refrain from violence and harassment.

“While we maintain close collaboration with taxi associations, those who choose to undermine the law will face its full might. Our officers will enforce the law without fear or favour,” said Hadebe.