POLOKWANE – His support of and ties to the Leeto La Polokwane project are said to have been a major driving force behind the point-blank shooting of Monageng Solomon ‘Solly’ Ledwaba (53), the former chairperson of the Seshego Polokwane Taxi Association, in Seshego on Sunday.
The shooting happened hours after the association’s election was held.
According to eyewitnesses at the scene, a vehicle approached that of Ledwaba, which was parked next to the traffic lights at Seshego Circle Centre.
A group of assailants fired at least five shots before speeding off, it was claimed.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo confirmed this according to information that surfaced in the preliminary investigation.
“Our investigation showed that Ledwaba was sitting in his parked vehicle when an unknown number of assailants approached in a white Toyota Fortuner without registration numbers, and shot him several times before fleeing the scene.”
He said taxi wars could not be ruled out.
But the newly elected chairperson of the association, Takalani Nemaungani, says there was undoubtedly tension in certain circles because of Ledwaba’s support of the Leeto La Polokwane rapid transport system.
“If it were indeed a member of the association who killed Ledwaba, then they have shot themselves in the foot. Solly would make sure everyone knew what Leeto was all about, and he ensured that taxi operators would not be left without a livelihood as a result of the bus system.”
Nemaungani told Polokwane Observer that Ledwaba was also the chairperson of Esilux, the vehicle operating company of Leeto La Polokwane.
“There have been disagreements in the past and we are aware of people who were disgruntled at a number of issues, including the Leeto La Polokwane project, but Solly was always open to engagement.
He did not believe in a life of violence and would always say that violence only breeds more violence. He would have rather solved issues around a table.”
According to Nemaungani, Ledwaba opted to step down from his position as the chairman in hope of focusing on Leeto La Polokwane.
He said he parted ways with Ledwana just an hour before he was gunned down.
“He left the election venue in high spirits. We are all shocked. Solly was always the one who explained how everything would work and make sure that the taxi operators were rightfully compensated by the municipality.”
Nemaungani conveyed messages of condolences to the Ledwaba family. Funeral arrangements were not available at the time of going to print.
The provincial police commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, appealed to the community to come forward with any information that can lead to the arrest of Ledwaba’s assailants.
Read more: Seshego cops seek info on local taxi boss killing
You can contact Warrant Officer Kwena Malebana on 079 7081670, Lieutenant Colonel Richard Boshomane on 079 894 5501, the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or go to the nearest police station.
