The Gauteng Provincial Government has learnt with a deep sense of sadness and anger about the abuse of two young women in or around the Jack Mincer Taxi Rank, otherwise known as Noord Street Taxi Rank on 30 December 2011, because of their clothing.
We condemn in the strongest possible terms the animal-like behaviour of those men involved – some old enough to be the young women’s fathers – where some males went as far as groping the young women.
We are comforted by the fact that the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department intervened to protect the two young ladies.
This is reminiscent of the incident four years ago at the same taxi rank.
Gauteng Premier, Nomvula Mokonyane, has urged law enforcement agencies to follow-up on the leads and bring the perpetrators to book.
“This incident not only tells us that women are still facing serious challenges of discrimination and gender-based violence but also demonstrates that this taxi rank is becoming notorious for behaviour that goes against the moral fibre of the society we are trying to build.
“When we upgraded this facility to become one of the best mixed-use taxi ranks in the country, we had in mind a place where commuters would feel safe and secured. The rank offers retail and entertainment experience where individuals and families could enjoy transit from one point to another while at the same time they can enjoy some shopping and entertainment.
“If those who have been entrusted with operating these facilities are failing to stick to their daily business; we will have no choice but to take firm steps in making sure that the rank is not being turned into a draconian institution to intimidate those it must benefit,” Mokonyane said.
The provincial government has already been in touch with the two young women and encouraged them to open a case so that the video footage is subjected to criminal investigation. We also urge any person who might have witnessed the incident, or with more information that can help police in their investigations, to get in touch with their nearest police station or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
Enquiries:
Dumisani Ngema
Tel: 011 689 3664
Cell: 082 801 0424
Premier Mokonyane condemns Noord Taxi ranks assault
Province
