SANTACO condemns killing of e-hailing driver, vows zero tolerance for violence

By Thapelo Molefe

The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) has condemned the killing of an e-hailing driver in Soweto and rejected claims that commuters are being intimidated into using taxis at malls and transport hubs.

This follows a shootout at Maponya Mall, in Soweto, last week in which 27-year-old e-hailing driver Mthokozisi Siyanda Mvelase was killed.

A passer-by was injured in the attack, and two e-hailing vehicles were torched.

The incident is believed to be linked to ongoing tensions between taxi operators and e-hailing drivers.

Briefing the media on Tuesday, SANTACO Gauteng chairperson Midday Mali described the incident as “a horrific and senseless act of violence,” adding that it has shaken both the taxi industry and the public.

He said SANTACO would assist Mvelase’s family with funeral arrangements.

“We cannot and will not defend this,” Mali said.

“There is no place in our province or in our industry for