Minister Madikizela condemns Delft taxi violence

Media Release by Bonginkosi Madikizela, Western Cape Minister of Transport and Public Works

Following the killing of a minibus taxi operator and the wounding of four others  over the past weekend, I consulted the South African Police Services and will publish a Notice in terms of Section 91 of the National Land Transport Act, making known my intention to impose extraordinary measures that may include the closing of ranks and routes in the Delft area if the lives of passengers and residents in the area are at risk as a result of the conflict between warring taxi associations.

The notice calls on affected parties to submit representations with regards my intended action.

It must be made clear that such a decision is not taken lightly and is only considered when the lives of innocent passengers and residents are placed at risk as a result of the violent conflict between the taxi associations.

I call on the leadership of the associations to restore calm and to resolve their disputes through peaceful means.

The SAPS and traffic authorities remain on high alert and will maintain heightened visibility in the area.