Patrols to increase in Soweto following taxi rapes
The City of Johannesburg says it will increase patrols in and around Soweto following reports of rapists disguised as taxi drivers.
MMC Michael Sun says the City has noted with alarm the recent reports by residents of Soweto and surrounding areas of instances where unsuspecting woman are picked up by minibus taxis and then being raped and robbed inside the vehicle.
"Since a woman came forward yesterday, recounting how she was raped at gunpoint in the back of a taxi in front of her 10-year old son, many other people have come forward accounting similar incidents. According to Gauteng Police, a white and a grey Toyota Quantum taxi and suspects have been identified," says Sun.
This comes after Gauteng MEC for Community Safety Sizakele Nkosi-Malobane met with taxi leaders yesterday.
Nkosi-Malobane appealed to the taxi industry to hand over perpetrators.
Sun says the City will increase its Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) patrols and stop-and-searches in and around the Soweto area.
"Whilst it is difficult to determine who are would-be criminals, the visible policing and stop-and-searches will act as a deterrent for potential criminal behaviour," says Sun.
Sun conveyed the following safety tips for residents who make use of public transport:
- Be alert and always look inside the vehicle for suspicious occupants before getting in.
- Look for a valid taxi operating permit displayed on the vehicle.
- If possible, tell a friend or relative of the make, colour and registration number of the vehicle you will be traveling in and convey your travel plan if you are travelling alone.
- Ask a friend to ride with you if you are not feeling well or if you have consumed alcohol. Don't allow yourself to become a vulnerable target.
- Don't be 'sweet talked' to get into a vehicle, no matter how cheap the fare is.
- Always be cautious and avoid showing money or expensive jewellery in public.
"The city will continue working with the Gauteng Provincial Traffic Police Department and the South African Police Service to ensure the safety or our residents.