KZN transport department condemns attack on e‑hailing driver in KwaNdengezi

The KwaZulu‑Natal Department of Transport has condemned a violent incident in KwaNdengezi Township, west of Durban, in which an e‑hailing driver was allegedly attacked and female passengers were allegedly harassed and intimidated.

Department responds after video surfaces

The department said it received “distressed calls” from the leadership of the KZN e‑Hailing Council and was provided with a video that, according to officials, showed an attack on the driver who was transporting female passengers. “Last night, we received distressed calls from the leadership of the KZN e‑Hailing Council. They shared a video showing an attack on the e‑hailing driver who was transporting female passengers,” said Duma.

Allegations from the footage

According to the department’s account, security guards from a company allegedly hired by the KwaNdengezi Taxi Association are seen in the circulating video brandishing firearms and ordering the driver to drop off female passengers. It was further alleged that shots were fired at the vehicle’s tyres, causing the driver to lose control and collide with another car.

Investigation and agencies involved

The department said it has assigned a team from its Public Regulatory Entity and Operation Shanela to investigate the matter, “working with the South African Police Service and Metro Police.” Duma said ballistic experts must be brought in to conduct spot examinations of any cartridges found at the scene.

The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA) has also been asked to investigate the incident. “Clearly, the gun‑wielding security guards must be investigated for the violation of the Private Security Industry Regulation Act,” Duma said.

Commitment to public transport stability

Duma said the department remains committed to ensuring stability in the public transport sector and will work with the South African National Taxi Council and other key stakeholders as part of its response. “We have assigned a team from our Public Regulatory Entity and Operation Shanela to investigate this matter, working with the South African Police Service and Metro Police,” he said.