Update: MEC deploys security forces to end taxi war
MEC Kaunda said KZN was a province governed by laws, and that it was important that these laws be upheld and respected
The result of the urgent meeting called by the MEC for Transport, Community Safety & Liaison yesterday (October 12) is that a new detachment of security forces has been deployed in Ladysmith to investigate all cases of murder in the area and arrest the perpetrators.
This announcement was made at the meeting of security forces, uThukela local government leaders and all key stakeholders which was convened by Transport, Community Safety & Liaison MEC Mxolisi Kaunda.
The meeting was deemed necessary following the recent incidents of murder, including three people being ambushed and slaughtered at a house in the Emcitsheni area of Ezakheni on Monday night (October 11). The three victims (aged 18, 22 and 23) were shot and killed by a large heavily-armed group of men using high-calibre firearms.
It emerged at the meeting that well over 20 people have been killed since 2014, with seven arrests having been made so far.
The killings, which are believed to have been triggered by ongoing taxi conflict, have since taken the form of a faction fight involving mainly the Mabaso and Gamede clans, but which has escalated to involve other community members.
General Bhekinkosi Langa (Acting Provincial Police Commissioner), who was also present at the meeting, announced that a new detachment of police would soon be deployed in the area, urging the local community to work closely with this intelligence-driven team to bring stability and peace to the area.
“Indeed, there is fear here. Therefore, it is our duty as the police and other stakeholders to bring back stability and lasting peace in the area. The provincial task team will take over the investigation of all the cases connected to this conflict.
“We urge the community to assist us by coming forward with information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects,” said General Langa.
MEC Kaunda said that KwaZulu-Natal was a province governed by laws and that it was important that these laws be upheld and respected. “We are all concerned by these developments and it is a major setback to the work that has been done in stabilising Ladysmith and the surrounding areas. We need to combine our efforts to stop these killings. We need to reclaim the authority and protect the rights of people to life,” urged MEC Kaunda.
The MEC urged the police to improve on their response systems when informed of impending attacks.
“As the government, we have full confidence in the police, but they must act and act swiftly. Those who are responsible for these murders must be brought to book soon.
“No one should be above the law, including leaders. Those responsible must face the full might of the law,” he said.
MEC Kaunda also met with Inkosi Siphamandla Mthembu, his traditional council and the peace committee to explore how peace could be brought about between the warring factions. Further meetings are on the cards.
