Limpopo taxi driver and passenger killed in hail of bullets

Limpopo transport and community safety MEC Violet Mathye has condemned the killing of a taxi driver and a passenger in Zebediela near Lebowakgomo at the weekend while police have launched a manhunt for the killers.

The 49-year-old passenger and a 42-year-old taxi driver died when the taxi they were travelling in was ambushed and hit by a hail of bullets. 

Department spokesperson Phuti Lekganyane said the drive-by shooting was similar to an incident in March this year. Taxi violence could not be ruled out as the cause of the killings.

During the March incident the government assembled a task team that included taxi operators to ensure the sector was stabilised and peaceful. At the time it was reported agreements had been formulated and there were permanent solutions in place.

Lekganyane added the latest incident had the potential to undermine the safety and security of civilians.

Mathye directed police to ensure the perpetrators are brought to book. “Even if these acts are sporadic we cannot have a situation where our commuters are using public transport facilities while fearing for their lives,” she said.

Limpopo police commissioner Lt-Gen Thembi Hadebe ordered an immediate manhunt for the unknown assailants.

Spokesperson Col Malesela Ledwaba said two other passengers were wounded during the attack. 

“According to reports, a white Toyota Hiace taxi kombi was travelling from Moletlane Dico taxi rank to Ga-Madisha Ditoro, carrying 15 passengers and the driver, when it was followed by a white Audi with [an] unknown registration number,” said Ledwaba.

“The occupants of the Audi opened fire on the taxi using a rifle and 9mm pistol, causing the taxi to come to a halt. The Audi made a U-turn and fled the scene towards Groothoek.”

Hadebe appealed to the community to come forward with information that would lead to the apprehension of the suspects.

“We will leave no stone unturned in ensuring those responsible are brought to justice,” said Hadebe.

Anyone with information that can assist in identifying and apprehending the suspects is requested to contact Col Kgadiswana Mnisi on 082-565-8501, the Crime Stop number 08600-10111, their nearest police station or use the MySAPS app.

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