Three shot dead in Port St Johns taxi violence
Three people were shot dead, six others including a child were wounded and three minibus taxis were torched during taxi violence in Port St Johns yesterday.
This brings to six the number of people killed and at least five taxis torched in attacks since last week on the R61 between Port St Johns and Lusikisiki.
Police spokesperson Colonel Priscilla Naidu confirmed the incident.
“Preliminary reports indicate that on Tuesday morning (time unknown) two taxi associations were engaged in a shootout at the Port St Johns taxi rank.
“Three security officials from one taxi association from Lusikisiki were fatally injured while five other people from the Port St Johns side sustained gunshot wounds.
“An 11-year-old boy was also hit by a stray bullet and was taken to hospital for treatment.
“Three vehicles were torched.
“Nine suspects have been arrested,” Naidu said.
She said multi-disciplinary forces were on the ground and police would remain in the area until the situation stabilised.
Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nomthetheleli Mene has urged feuding taxi associations operating in the area to work together and find amicable solutions to their ongoing disagreements. “Such lawlessness will not be tolerated.
“We call on all stakeholders to come forward and engage in constructive discussions and urgently find a solution to avoid further loss of lives,” she said.
Premier Oscar Mabuyane condemned the violence.
“What we are witnessing unfold in Port St Johns is anarchy ...
“Law enforcement authorities have been deployed to restore normality in the area.
“We convey our heartfelt condolences to the families of the six people who have reportedly lost their lives since the start of these shootings.
“We are calling for a ceasefire between the two groups.
“Any continued assault from either of the warring groups will bear tough consequences,” he said.
Border Alliance Taxi Association (Bata) president Songezo Mpanda called for peace.
“I am appealing for peace and harmony.
“I have spoken and agreed with the Uncedo president and we will together visit the area this week ... We want no bloodbath,” Mpanda said.