By: Icamagu News Correspondent
Early morning commuters were left shaken on Monday after two separate shooting incidents at Cape Town taxi ranks claimed the lives of three people and left six others injured.
According to police spokesperson Lt Col Malcolm Pojie, the attacks are believed to be linked to ongoing taxi-related conflicts.
The first incident occurred at around 5:40am at the corner of Japhtha K Masemola Drive and Spine Road in Khayelitsha, when two armed men approached the Vuyani taxi rank and opened fire. A taxi driver was fatally shot, while two other drivers sustained injuries and were rushed to hospital.
Just two hours later, at about 7:30am, gunmen struck again at the Ngqwangi Drive taxi rank in Philippi East. Six men, aged between 35 and 43, were shot. One died at the scene, another succumbed to his injuries in hospital, and four others were taken for medical treatment. Police confirmed that three taxi drivers remain in critical condition, while a passenger is reported to be stable.
“The suspects fled the scenes and are yet to be arrested. The motives for the attacks are believed to be related to taxi conflict,” said Pojie.
Detective Captain Lukhunyo Magadla, who is leading the investigation, has urged the public to come forward with any information that may assist in tracking down the perpetrators.
“We appeal to anyone with information which could lead to the arrests of the suspects to contact me directly on 082 411 3245, or reach Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Information may also be shared through the MySAPS mobile application, where tip-offs can be submitted anonymously,” said Det-Capt Magadla.
Authorities have assured the community that all information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.
Police have encouraged residents to remain alert around public transport hubs and to report suspicious behaviour.
“Community safety is a shared responsibility. By working together and speaking out, we can help ensure that our taxi ranks remain safe spaces for commuters,” added Magadla.
