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Fatalities Reported Amid Taxi Shutdown in Ekurhuleni: Two Individuals Fatally Shot

Published

2 months ago

March 8, 2024

Thursday’s taxi shutdown in Ekurhuleni resulted in two fatalities in Germiston, escalating tensions across the East Rand. According to IOL, Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed the victims, both associated with the local taxi industry, were shot dead while inside a vehicle. While the motive remains unclear, suspicions point to taxi-related violence, prompting a search for the assailants.

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The shutdown left thousands of commuters stranded in areas like Thembisa, Thokoza, Germiston, Benoni, Katlehong, and Vosloorus. Theo Malele, spokesperson for the National Taxi Alliance, cited dissatisfaction with bus contracts and routes as the cause of the strike. Malele emphasised the industry’s demand for a significant stake in contracts along historically operated and developed routes.

Expressing remorse for the commuter’s inconvenience, Malele urged urgent intervention from authorities to address industry grievances. He warned of escalating the shutdown nationally if negotiations fail to yield satisfactory outcomes. The taxi association’s apology underscores the broader implications of the standoff, urging a swift resolution to mitigate disruptions to public mobility and safety.

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