A security company in the employ of a taxi association opened fire against members of a rival taxi association killing one person and injuring another in Primrose, Germiston, yesterday.
The conflict between the two taxi associations involved arises from an insistence by one of the associations, Lethabong Taxi Association (LTA), to use a route allocated to a rival taxi association, the Greater Germiston Taxi Association (GGTA). During July 2008, the Registrar in the Public Register of all Public Transport took a decision to the effect that the disputed routes were in fact allocated to the GGTA. Acting contrary to the decision by the Registrar, the LTA has been insisting on using the routes, employing a private security company to protect its members in their illegal activities.
In previous discussions with the two associations, the department had warned that it will not countenance usage of private security companies in situations that fall within the competence of the South African Police Services. The department also informed the two associations that it fully supports the decision of the Registrar.
Following yesterday’s shooting accident, were one person was killed and another injured, the Gauteng MEC for Community Safety, Mr Khabisi Mosunkutu, visited the scene of crime. Addressing commuters and taxi operators, MEC Mosunkutu warned that act of violence and other criminal activities will not be tolerate. He said that he will make sure that all those involved face the full might of the law.
He further warned that taxis found operating outside allocated routes will be impounded.
Issued by: Department of Community Safety, Gauteng Provincial Government
11 June 2009
Source: Department of Community Safety, Gauteng Provincial Government (http://www.gautsafety.gpg.gov.za)
