Tensions between rival taxi associations in Cape Town have escalated, with five people now confirmed dead and several others injured in ongoing violence tied to a disputed taxi route between Mfuleni and Somerset West.
Mfuleni rank remains closed as taxi war escalates
The dispute involves two major associations, the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA) and the Congress of Democratic Taxi Associations (CODETA), who are battling for control of the busy Mfuleni, Nomzamo, Lwandle, and Somerset West corridor.
The violence erupted last week with four people being shot dead at the Mfuleni Taxi Rank.
On Monday night, a fifth fatality occurred in Langa on Winnie Mandela Road in what is believed to be a related incident.
According to City of Cape Town Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, “Killers are following targets home since they can’t execute shootings at taxi ranks, where there is a heavy police presence.”
Smith confirmed that the Mfuleni taxi rank remains closed as of Tuesday, with both associations standing outside the site.
“Seven taxis were impounded yesterday. Stun grenades were used to address the conduct of taxi drivers and three firearms were taken in by SAPS,” he said.
According to Smith, the conflict arises from a long-running dispute over operating rights.
CODETA holds the license for the route, but CATA is accused of illegally operating taxis along the same route — a practice known as “pirating.” CATA has also allegedly been forcing commuters into their vehicles, intensifying the conflict.
Cape Town Metro Police and SAPS have increased deployments at Mfuleni rank and other key locations along the affected routes.
“Our priority is to keep commuters safe and assist the South African Police Service maintain order,” said Smith. “We are hopeful issues can be resolved amicably, and that no further harm comes to anyone.”
Commuters in Lwandle and Strand were left stranded on Monday due to the unrest, with some forced to walk to their destinations. Yolanda Mnqayi, a resident of Lwandle, said:
“I had to walk because even those with private cars refused to help us out of fear they might be targeted by taxi operators.”
Police spokesperson Captain Frederick van Wyk confirmed that law enforcement presence is high, especially near Somerset West Taxi Rank, Church Street, and Andries Pretorius Street.
“Neighbouring police stations remain on high alert as the situation is being monitored closely,” he said.
Meanwhile, the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) has called for calm and restraint. Chairperson Mandla Hermanus said they are holding discussions with the affected associations and working with the Department of Transport.
“This incident must not be allowed to derail efforts underway to build peace and unity in the taxi industry across the province,” he said.
The situation remains volatile. A taxi industry task team is expected to meet with the provincial MEC on Thursday to address the crisis.
