By Jonk wa Mashamba
news@alexreporter.co.za
Gauteng Traffic Police arrested four suspects for allegedly engaging in violence in the taxi industry.
Sello Maremane, Gauteng Traffic Police Spokesperson said they will continue to deal with perpetrators of violence in the taxi industry following the arrest of four suspects on Thursday night by the members attached to the Public Transport Intervention Unit in Orlando, Soweto policing precinct.
According to preliminary information, a shootout ensued between rival taxi associations, namely NANDUWE and WATA over a dispute on routes in Soweto resulting in minibuses severely damaged by stones and hard objects.
Several people sustained injuries during the shootout. The incident took place at WATA offices in Soweto.
The Gauteng Traffic Police responded swiftly and arrested the four suspects in Orlando and confiscated about four high caliber rifles.
Maremane said the suspects were expected to appear at Orlando Magistrates Court shortly to face charges relating to attempted murder, illegal possession of firearms and malicious damage to property.
He said the Gauteng Traffic Police has issued a stern warning to perpetrators of violence in the taxi industry.
“The Gauteng Traffic Police is concerned by the ongoing violence in the taxi industry. It is hardly a week since the arrest of a suspect linked to serial killings in the taxi industry. The law enforcement authorities will not tolerate any lawlessness in the taxi industry as it threatens the lives of ordinary citizens,” said Sello Maremane, Gauteng Traffic Police Spokesperson.
“The law enforcement authorities will be on high alert until the protracted conflict between the two associations is stabilized. Lastly, we wish all those injured during the shooting incident a speedy recovery,” said Maremane.
