Calm returns to Maponya Mall following e-hailing driver’s death
The South African Government News Agency reports that tensions at Maponya Mall in Soweto have eased after Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, intervened following the fatal shooting of an e-hailing driver last week.
The South African Government News Agency confirms that peace has been restored at Maponya Mall in Soweto after community protests erupted following the death of an e-hailing driver.
Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, visited the mall to engage with taxi operators, e-hailing representatives, and mall management.
Her visit aimed to address tensions within the public transport sector and ensure the safety of commuters and workers.
The driver, 27-year-old Mthokozisi Mvelase, was shot at a suspected e-hailing pick-up point last week, leaving two other drivers injured.
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The incident sparked anger among residents, who blockaded entrances to the mall, forcing its temporary closure.
During her visit, Diale-Tlabela met with the Soweto e-hailers’ organisation and mall management. She confirmed that calm had been restored and that the mall would reopen.
“Calm has been restored, and additional law enforcement personnel are on the ground to ensure safety. Lawlessness will not be tolerated,” Diale-Tlabela said.
The MEC urged the community to allow business operations to resume and ensure access to essential services for all residents.
