Gauteng Transport MEC speaks out on taxi shooting

Two women were shot during the shoot out between alleged taxi bosses and illegal operators. One was wounded, the other subsequently died.

Vadi has dispatched the Metro police to the area in order to keep the peace and ensure safety for commuters. When asked whether the department was expecting any further violence in the area, Vadi said, “It is important to note that a woman lost her life due to a shooting in the area and as part of pro-active policing we saw it fit to take these steps.”

The taxi operators Vadi cited as being involved in the shooting are Ivory Park taxi association members and illegal taxi operators from Alexander township whom are not affiliated to any association. The illegal operators are said to be at the core of the issue. “They transport commuters from Ivory Park to Johannesburg and this is not their route. What they are doing is illegal,” said Vadi.

Speaking on repercussions for the illegal operators, Vadi said Metro police were also monitoring the situation to ensure there isn’t a recurrence of illegal transporting of commuters.

Midrand Reporter has been reporting extensively on this incident. To read our previous stories click here:

Three men arrested for fatal shootout on K101