In a poignant address on Monday in Johannesburg, the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) accepted cautious responsibility for a recent violent incident that resulted in the tragic death of 27-year-old e-hailing driver, Mthokozisi Mvelase. The violence erupted at Maponya Mall in Soweto, where taxi operators reportedly went on a rampage, leading to the death of Mvelase and injuries to another driver, along with the destruction of vehicles.
Speaking at a media briefing that laid bare the anguish and grief following the violence, SANTACO President Abner Tsebe stated, “We gather here today, colleagues, under very painful circumstances… Our nation witnessed an unspeakable act of violence.” Tsebe expressed profound sorrow for Mvelase’s family, underscoring the loss of a young man who was not only a cherished brother but also a soon-to-be father and a vital breadwinner for his family. The impact of the attack reverberated throughout the community, leaving many shaken and in distress.
In a gesture of compassion, SANTACO has offered to cover the transportation of Mvelase’s remains to KwaZulu-Natal and will assist with the burial arrangements. “To the family of this young man, I want to say from my heart, we are deeply sorry for your loss, condolences,” Tsebe continued, vowing to support the bereaved family during their time of grief. He assured that discussions were underway with the family to help facilitate a dignified farewell for Mvelase.
However, alongside their support for the victims, SANTACO made it clear that it does not condone violence within its ranks. Tsebe stated emphatically that any operator, driver, or member linked to the attack would face immediate expulsion from the council. “Violence is not a competition. Violence is not a conflict resolution. Violence is crime, and crime has no place in the taxi industry or anywhere in our South African community,” he asserted, drawing attention to the persistent tensions among minibus taxi operators.
Furthermore, SANTACO directed all affiliated associations to instruct their members against harassing motorists or coercing the public into using taxis. Tsebe highlighted the council’s commitment to fostering a culture of responsibility and accountability, urging all members to act in a commendable manner to prevent similar incidents from reoccurring.
Despite SANTACO’s efforts to address violence and chaos within the industry, there remains a cloud of skepticism over the handling of such matters, particularly due to historically low conviction rates in taxi-related crimes. Investigations into the Maponya Mall incident are ongoing amidst calls for thorough accountability and justice.