PORT ST JOHNS: Authorities reported three taxi workers who were shot dead, and three taxis set alight during a feud between Boarder and Uncedo Taxi Associations in PSJ last Wednesday of January.
It is not a new thing that these associations has had differences on using public roads and sharing territories, however in the recent years the level of violence has died down until the 13th of January 2022 when two drivers and one taxi assistant were shot and died.
The official reason for the incident is yet unknown but the community and public commuters are still shaken by the shootings and burnings of the taxis which puts the society at risk as in any other war. Citizens expressed concern on this incident fearing the possible retaliation from both organisations which could happen at any moment when the commuters board. Sakhiwo Lusiba from the taxi industry confirmed the incidents of violence.
Eastern Cape department of transport spokesperson, Unathi Bhinqose said the department condemned the incident.
This is an unfortunate incident and violence that must not be tolerated. The police have been dispatched at Lusikisiki and Port St Johns to assess the situation and avoid any further spread of the violence as it has always been the case with similar past acts of violence within this industry.” – said Bhinqose.
