Durban - The MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison in KwaZulu-Natal Bheki Cele was expected to hold a meeting with the MNR Taxi Association on Thursday to discuss possible taxi violence.
This follows the recent shootings of members of the association in Umlazi, south of Durban.
"Such barbaric behavior will not be tolerated and perpetrators will be hunted down and brought to book.
"We urge public transport operators to resolve their disputes on a round table and not with guns. We will act harshly with those who want to compromise the safety of our people," said MEC Cele.
Four taxi operators were shot in Section R of Umlazi, next to the fire station, on Wednesday. One person was killed and three are currently receiving medical attention for gunshot wounds at the Prince Mshiyeni hospital.
Unidentified men driving in a Mercedes Benz and a Green Audi went to the offices of the MNR taxi association and fired shots at four of the members who were occupying three cars - two Toyota Corolla's and a Volkswagen Fox which were parked outside, where operators park their private cars.
Preliminary reports by the South Africa Police Services indicate that a large number of 9mm and AK-47 gun cartridges were found on the scene.
While the motive for the shooting is not yet known and the SAPS is investigating the matter, there has been an indication that violence among members of the association cannot be ruled out as a motive until investigations prove otherwise.
The meeting between department and the MNR Taxi Association is expected to discuss and resolve the internal feuds amongst members of the association.
