Time to punish all taxi-Uber thugs

The photographs on Twitter – of a man’s blood-soaked face – were graphic evidence of what appears to be an escalation in the war between metered taxis and Uber drivers.

Singer Jack Parow posted the images of his friend, Dirk Agenbag, after an incident over the weekend.

Agenbag was attacked as he climbed into an Uber car in Melville. He was stabbed in the face by a man he believed to be a metered taxi driver exacting revenge on him for using the ride-hailing service.

If the allegations are correct, then the battle between the rival groups is becoming increasingly violent and indiscriminate. And, it is becoming clear that meter taxi drivers are prepared to attack Uber’s passengers as well as its drivers.

The authorities, including those in Gauteng – where the violence is worst – and Police Minister Fikile Mbalula – have, at various times, promised that action will be taken and that drivers who act violently will be brought to book. Result? So far, nobody has appeared in court for the many incidents of assault, arson and even, in one case, murder.

The time for words is over. Examples must be made of the criminals. Otherwise, we’re all on a ride to nowhere …