LIMPOPO – A taxi owner and pastor of Louis Trichardt, Samuel Tshifhango (64), was shot and killed at his home in Louis Trichardt on Tuesday, 4 February. His death is said to be related to taxi violence. His murder sent shockwaves through the taxi industry and community, with many calling on the police to tighten the screws and apprehend the killers.
Tshifhango was the chairperson of the Louis Trichardt Musina Taxi Association, who was fighting for the route with the Beitbridge Taxi Association (BTA). The two associations on Monday appeared in the Polokwane High Court for route-related matters.
The daughter of the deceased, Kundani Tshifhango, said her father’s attacker shot him several times, shortly after he had parked his car at their gate. “Our father was a loving person who took care of all of us. We have lost a good, caring man who always came up with solutions when we had problems.” She indicated that the family did not feel safe while the perpetrators were still at large, and urged law enforcement agencies to speed up their investigations.
The Secretary of the LTT Musina Taxi Association, Collen Luvhengo, said that he was shocked that one of their members had been shot dead. “The deceased’s colleagues are receiving counselling,” he added Luvhengo. He conveyed his condolences to the Tshifhango family. Police Spokesperson, Brig Motlafela Mojapelo said the police were investigating the tragedy. No arrest had been made at the time of going to press, and a case of murder was opened. Tshifhango is survived by five children. According to his daughter, funeral arrangements are at an advanced stage.
