Bus council calls for peace intervention

POLICE have yet to make an arrest in the murder investigation of a prominent King William’s Town bus operator shot dead last week.

The body of Michael Vani, 57, was found with multiple gunshot wounds last week Wednesday. His death, according to his family, was linked to an ongoing bus war.

He was found in Mdingi village by residents, who saw his silver grey Isuzu bakkie in the bush at night with the lights on.

Next to Vani’s body was a crying two-year-old toddler. No one has come forward to claim the child.

Yesterday KWT police spokeswoman Captain Siphokazi Mawisa admitted there had been no progress in the case.

Leaders of the troubled EC Bus Council are calling for cool heads as their members live in fear after Vani’s death and failed assassination attempts on other members.

Deputy chair Bixie Mkutu said there was no unity in the council.

He said tensions between those of the old guard and new blood in the bus industry were high, and that the tensions were a “big challenge” for them.

“We are facing challenges of people who don’t want to change the governing system.

“I personally cannot allow a bus to operate without a permit or a licence disc.”

He said the fights within the council were complex and needed the intervention of law enforcement agencies. Outside intervention was key before another life was lost, he added.

Mkutu said there were already suggestions for peace talks from within the bus council.

“It’s not going to be easy. There is this rivalry.

“Hence we need provincial traffic, local traffic, police, and transport department intervention.” —