By: Zilungile Mkhize
President of the South African National Taxi Council (Santaco), Abnar Tsebe, has issued a stern warning that any taxi operator found to be involved in violent attacks will face immediate expulsion from the industry and criminal prosecution.
Tsebe strongly condemned the recent attacks on e-hailing drivers at Maponya Mall in Soweto, Gauteng, describing the incidents as both criminal and unacceptable.
“Violence has no place in the taxi sector,” Tsebe said, adding that such actions undermine the reputation of the industry and pose a serious threat to public safety.
He confirmed that Santaco is working closely with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and community leaders to restore calm in the affected areas, ensure accountability, and prevent further incidents.
The attacks, which reportedly involved intimidation and damage to vehicles, have reignited tensions between traditional taxi associations and e-hailing service operators. However, Santaco maintains that there is no justification for violence and has urged all parties to resolve disputes through legal and constructive means.
