Tsakane taxi rank in Ekurhuleni has been shut down following taxi violence that led to the killing of four taxi drivers and the serious injury of six others.
“No taxis will be allowed to operate from the Tsakane taxi rank and law enforcement personnel will be deployed to the affected area,” said Gauteng MEC of Roads and Transport, Ismail Vadi.
The taxi rank will remain closed until the security situation relating to the taxi industry in the area stabilises.
The MEC has urged commuters in the Tsakane/Brakpan area to make alternative transport arrangements. The taxi rank was shut down on Wednesday.
“This drastic administrative measure is necessary to protect the lives of commuters and taxi drivers. It’s in the interest of public safety,” Vadi said.
Together with the MEC of Community Safety, Sizakele Nkosi-Malobane, Vadi condemned in the strongest possible terms the taxi killings in Brakpan.
Both Vadi and Nkosi-Malobane welcomed the arrest by the SAPS of eight people, believed to be six private security guards and two taxi owners, who are allegedly linked to Wednesday's shootings.
The police confiscated nine firearms - four pistols and five heavy calibre rifles during the arrests.
“We are deeply saddened by these senseless killings and would like to convey our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. We wish those injured a speedy recovery,” said Vadi and Nkosi-Malobane.
Both MECs applauded the South African Police Service for their swift action in apprehending the eight suspects allegedly linked to the shootings and for confiscating the firearms.
The MECs have called for the members of the Greater Brakpan Taxi Association to work together to find non-violent solutions to their internal challenges without endangering the lives of commuters and their members. – SAnews.gov.za
