Police minister addresses Nongoma taxi violence
Since 2012, about 12 people have been killed in Nongoma in connection with taxi disputes
Nongoma residents, members from taxi associations, representatives from the KZN Department of Transport and SAPS recently attended an imbizo called by Police Minister Bheki Cele to address the scourge of taxi-related violence.
At the meeting, it was revealed that the KZN Department of Transport and SAPS have put together a rolling programme to ensure the safety of taxi operators and commuters.
This will include a team of investigators dedicated to working on murder cases connected to taxi violence, as well as tracking and tracing suspects or persons of interest who can assist authorities in resolving the cases.
The community took the opportunity to urge police to intensify their efforts, with taxi operators also discussing attacks they suffered, allegedly at the hands of rival taxi associations.
Since 2012, about 12 people have been killed in Nongoma in connection with taxi disputes.
Cele called on the provincial transport department to ensure only taxi operators with valid route permits can operate in the area.
‘Those who don’t have permits must be removed from the system and not given any room to intimidate and cause harm at taxi ranks or on the road,’ he said.
‘As the police, we will continue to stamp the authority of the state and bring about public order, for the sake of community members, especially women, children and the elderly who are reliant on reaching their destinations safely,’ he said.
Cele said he was encouraged by the willingness of the two major taxi associations to meet with the SAPS and transport officials in a bid to end the violence.
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