Fears of taxi war on Langa route
There are fears of taxi violence on the Langa route after Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA) members Mlamli Mrwetyana, 55, and Tembinkosi Ndongeni, 45, both from Langa, were shot dead while sitting inside a bakkie at the Langa Taxi rank.
Langa police are investigating the killing of the two men who were shot on Youth Day last Friday, June 16.
Cata and police have shared their frustration and concerns over crime in the area.
Speaking to Vukani, Cata spokesperson Nkululeko Sityebi said although at that time, the incident did not appear to be connected to taxi violence, they remain concerned.
“We have no idea why they were killed. We do not know whether this was directed at us or was just another unfortunate incident. Just after the shooting on that route, we visited it and there were reports of a fight. But again, it is a big concern to us,” he said.
Mr Sityebi said such incidents in the taxi industry are not taken lightly, especially in the province. He, however, said he hopes that the police will do a proper investigation to bring the assailants to book. He said they will soon be calling a meeting with their members in Langa to find out more information.
“But at this stage we found nothing untoward. This is strange to us. We are deeply saddened by the incident and wish that the suspects can be arrested. We hope that the police will intervene and arrest the murderers. We also have a hope that people will give out information to police,” said the worried Mr Sityebi.
Langa police spokesperson Captain Nondumiso Paul said they are searching for the suspects.
“It is alleged that two unknown guys fired several shots at two taxi owners who were inside white double cab Toyota Hilux. Seventeen cartridges were found on the scene,” she said.
Police said anyone with information can contact Crime Stop on 086 10111
