CATA calls for swift investigations into recent murders of its members

The Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA) is calling for speedy investigations into recent murders of its members.

At least four senior CATA leaders have been fatally shot in separate attacks in the past six months.

In April, the association's former spokesperson, Andile Seyamo, was killed outside his home.

In September, its first deputy chairperson, Mnikeli Mgope, was shot and killed at the Nyanga taxi rank.

Then, taxi owners Thembelani Mzola and Mzukisi Zwakala were shot and killed last week and on Monday, respectively.

This month's murders of taxi bosses in Cape Town took place just days after a 30-day closure of routes in the Somerset West area were lifted.

The measures were implemented due to violence between rivals CATA and CODETA.

CATA spokesperson Nkululeko Sityebi has urged the police to arrest those responsible to prevent more bloodshed.
 
"So let's wait for the police to do a proper job, so we can avoid assuming whether it's because of the route closures or if they're being killed by CATA or CODETA or it's personal issues."

Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku has vowed to take tough action against the industry should the latest attack be linked to the contested routes.