Blood spilled in Cape Town taxi 'war'

Over 30 murder and attempted murder cases have been opened in a minibus-taxi power struggle in Cape Town, Western Cape transport MEC Robin Carlisle said on Monday.

   

No arrests had been made in those cases in the past year, thus threatening the stability of the industry.

   

"Blood has been spilt mostly as a result of an apparent internal power struggle within mother body organisations. Nyanga taxi rank has become the very bloody scene of this ongoing battle."

   

Carlisle visited the taxi rank on Monday morning.

   

He said he would approach the city of Cape Town to explore the possibility of installing security cameras in the vicinity.

   

Concerned by the spike in taxi violence, Carlisle instituted a hearing with representatives from the industry, who signed a non-violence treaty.

   

The hearing, on July 25, was attended by representatives from the SA National Taxi Council, the city of Cape Town, and over 150 taxi associations.

   

"All were, and are, in agreement that the situation is unacceptable and highly condemnable as it threatens the stability of the industry, as well as the safety of the commuters whom the industry serves."

   

Carlisle said for peace to be realised, industry leaders should commit to effectively resolve internal conflicts with the help of his department and police.

   

-Sapa