Alleged taxi association members try to stop passengers from using lift clubs in Secunda area
Since the incident, the lift club has stopped and the members had to find another way to get to work.
A group of men, allegedly from a local taxi association, stopped a motorist and his four passengers near the four-way crossing at the Graceland Hotel, Casino and Country Club and the Charlie gate two entrance on January 22 before 06.30.
According to passenger Colin Sanders, who commutes with a lift club, about five men stopped the motorist.
“When they tried to stop the driver, they pulled out guns. They demanded to know why he was giving us a lift. The driver explained we were all going to the same place of work,” said Colin.
According to Sanders, the driver tried to pull to the side of the road while one man tried to open the passenger door.
“He was violent and threatened to shoot at us if the driver did not stop the vehicle,” said Sanders.
The men ordered the passengers to exit the vehicle.
“One man had a liquid in a container and wanted to throw it at me. I have no idea what the liquid was. It could have been paraffin or water. I do not know,” said Sanders.
He said the passengers told the men they had no money for transport and used the lift club.
“They did not care and told us to walk to Sasol. They did not want to hear any explanation. We had to walk to work,” he said.
“We are being forced to use the taxis. When I have used taxis, they are full or late. I cannot afford to lose my job because of being late for work,” said Sanders.
Since the incident, the lift club has stopped, and Sanders had to find another way to get to work. He said he does not know how the other passengers get to work now.
“We stopped the lift club. We don’t want the driver’s life put at risk by giving us a lift,” said Sanders.
The Ridge Times spoke to Aron Mahlangu of the Vukta Taxi Association.
“I don’t know anything about the incident. People take advantage of using the Vukta Taxi Association name. Nothing has come to my attention, and these men are not from my association,” said Mahlangu.
He said he had received no complaints from the public regarding this incident.
A message was sent to Sasol Secunda site colleagues, saying the incident had been brought to the attention of Sasol employees and/or service providers being stopped and interrogated over the number of passengers in their cars at the Sasol control point one (Charlie one) in Secunda.
Sasol does not condone intimidation and threats because employees can choose their transport and the number of passengers in their cars.
Sasol is seeking engagement with the relevant authorities and regulators to find an amicable and suitable solution.
“While discussions are ongoing, we encourage everyone to remain cautious and calm and report any incidents related to the above to Sasol Secunda security. Sasol remains committed to ensuring the safety of its employees and service providers.”
