Two Kapta members shot dead in Katlehong amid alleged route dispute

What happened

Reports say unknown suspects fired multiple shots at the victims, intentionally blocked a seven-seater minibus while it was parked and then fled the scene. Police reportedly recovered 60 cartridges at the scene.

Another victim was rushed to hospital after armed suspects travelling in two vehicles opened fire on him and other association members. His condition is unknown, according to the reports.

Investigation and response

Police are reportedly investigating two counts of murder and attempted murder. No arrests have been made, and officials told The Citizen that no police reports on the incident were logged.

Attempts to get a comment from Kapta were unsuccessful at the time of publishing. Kasie FM News quoted the association expressing deep concern about the continued state of violence within the taxi industry despite prior engagements between government and industry members aimed at resolving disputes.

Alleged motive

The shooting was allegedly linked to an ongoing route dispute between Kapta and a Zonkizizwe splinter group, local outlets reported.

Broader context

Taxi violence has long affected operators, drivers and commuters. The Citizen’s coverage noted similar unrest in the North West this week, where taxi drivers blocked main entrances and exits in Mahikeng and clashed with police after several taxis were towed.

According to SABC reporting cited in local coverage, disputes in the sector can stem from smaller e-hailing cars taking business from traditional taxi operators.

The African Journal of Criminology and Victimology, published this year and referenced in local reporting, found an increase in violence among taxi associations and operators, driven in part by a perceived intolerance of competition and an absence of effective state regulation. That research, the coverage says, documented injuries, deaths and feelings of insecurity among commuters.

Next steps

Police investigations into the Katlehong shooting are under way. Any updates from authorities or Kapta were not available at the time of reporting.