Santaco Gauteng demands stronger law enforcement after killing of Alexandra Taxi Association chairperson

The taxi industry in Gauteng is again calling for urgent, intensified law enforcement following the killing of Alexandra Taxi Association Chairperson Vusi Mayaba.

"It definitely is heartbreaking, losing a man of his calibre. He was a humble man," says Midday Mali, Chairperson at Santaco Gauteng.

Mali states that it remains unclear what is driving the violence, as some victims are targeted even when not operating on disputed routes.

"These killings are happening with the chairpersons, members and other people. Some of them are not on the routes on the day, but you will hear that a taxi operator has been killed. So, therefore, we are still puzzled about what it is all about, what is happening, what are the real issues that cause the people to be killed."

He is urging all industry members to cooperate with police, emphasising that thorough investigations are the only way to reveal whether the attacks are route-related or driven by other motives.

Mali insists conflict cannot be solved through retaliation, and that the industry must return to negotiatingif Gauteng is to reverse the escalating violence.

"Killing is not a solution, but sitting around the table, dealing with issues, it shows the maturity of the people in the province.

"These killings are happening every day, most of the week."

To listen to Mali in conversation with 702 and CapeTalk’s Africa Melane, click below: