12 February 2009
Safety and Liaison MEC Thobile Mhlahlo has condemned the recent taxi
violence where private property was damaged and people attacked allegedly by
taxi operators in the Nelson Mandela Bay. Two clinics were burnt at NU8
Motherwell;
One African National Congress (ANC) office was burnt at NU7 all at
Motherwell.
Seven suspects have been arrested so far. A high police visibility of police
on a 24 hour basis whilst construction is in progress will be undertaken.
"We condemn all these acts that are now putting the lives of our people in
jeopardy. We urge taxi operators to embark on a peaceful march and not commit
any acts of violence or break the law. We have increased police visibility in
the area to safeguard innocent people who might fall victims to this
unfortunate situation," Mhlahlo said.
"Violence perpetrators will be arrested."
A task team at a regional level has been established which will collect all
dockets relating to the taxi violence and prosecute those involved. There have
been reported incidents and threats towards the employees construction
employees at BRT site. The situation is being monitored and any acts of
violence will not be tolerated.
Currently a high level police visibility has been dispatched to the area
whilst construction is in progress. There will be South African Police Service
(SAPS) vehicles on each Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) site. In addition a joint
operation committee has been established to consolidate all reports with regard
to the crime incidents.
Issued by: Department of safety and Liaison, Eastern Cape Provincial
Government
12 February 2009
Source: Department of safety and Liaison, Eastern Cape Provincial Government
(http://www.safety.ecprov.gov.za)
