Taxi Driver and a passenger killed in Zebediela

A Taxi Driver and a passenger were shot and killed while a combi carrying 15 passengers was travelling from Moletlane Dico taxi rank to Ga-Madisha Ditoro in Zebediela on Saturday.

The incident occurred at approximately 17:45 in Magatle, Capricorn district leaving two other passengers injured.

It is alleged that occupants of the Audi opened fire on the taxi using a rifle and 9mm pistol, causing the taxi to come to a standstill. The Audi then made a U-turn and fled the scene towards Groothoek.

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The 42-year-old driver died instantly, while a female passenger was slightly injured by shattered glass. Two male passengers were seriously injured and rushed to the hospital, where one, aged 49, succumbed to his injuries.

The motive for the attack is unknown, but taxi violence cannot be ruled out. Two cases of murder and two of attempted murder have been registered.

ZEBEDIELA TAXI DRIVER SHOT AND KILLED IN ONGOING VIOLENCE IN THE AREA

The drive-by shooting is similar to another one which took place around March, earlier this year. During the March 2024 incident, the Government had assembled a Task Team. It included Taxi Operators, to ensure that the sector was stabilised and peaceful. At that time, it was reported that agreements had been formulated, and there were permanent solutions in place.

Limpopo MEC for Transport and Community Safety Violet Mathye has condemned the incident. She has directed the Police to leave no stone unturned. To also ensure that the perpetrators of these heinous acts are brought to book.

“Even if these acts are sporadic, we cannot have a situation where our commuters are using public transport facilities while fearing for their lives,” she said.