The battle between minibus taxi and Avanza operators in Tubatse (Burgersfort) are becoming a threat to human life. The conflict has sparked fear within communities, as locals anticipate casualties.

Over the past year, minibus organisation Eastern Leolo Taxi Association (Elta) and Burgersfort Internal Transport (Avanzas) have been at loggerheads over routes and the transportation of learners and workers across town and in the CBD.

Lowvelder reports that in recent weeks, Elta patrollers have allegedly been stopping Avanzas and forcing passengers off. Most of the passengers are learners, security officers and cashiers employed at shops in the town.

“With law enforcement seemingly ignoring the illegal stopping of vehicles, it has become the norm for commuters to be bullied off their transport, forcing them to walk kilometres to their schools and places of work.”

Yesterday morning an Avanza transporting learners was hit with a stone, resulting in a young learner sustaining minor injuries. On the same day, the conflict continued with the two parties blocking the busy R555 leading to the town from Ohrigstad.

The blockade was condemned by Fetakgomo Tubatse Local Municipality’s mayor, councillor Eddie Maila.

“This behaviour will never be tolerated, particularly when school children are caught in the crossfire between warring parties. The municipality cannot allow a situation where children are subjected to harm and intimidation while parents have entrusted drivers with the responsibility of transporting them to school safely,” he said.

The mayor called for restraint and has condemned the use of violence as a means to resolve disputes.

“Roads are public infrastructure, meant to serve everyone, and no grievance justifies violence or intimidation. We urge all parties to exercise restraint and engage through lawful and peaceful channels so that stability and safety can be restored without further disruption.”

Maila confirmed that the municipality is engaging the relevant taxi associations as a matter of urgency to stabilise the situation and restore normality.

He said all affected roads were reopened, and law-enforcement agencies would continue observing the situation closely to ensure public safety and prevent any further incidents.

“All parties involved are urged to desist from blocking public roads, as such actions disrupt the lives of many residents who rely on these routes to conduct their daily activities. Government will continue to ensure that public roads are protected and remain safe for all users. Those who perpetrate violence, intimidate road users, and place lives, especially those of children, at risk will face the full might of the law,” he concluded.

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