Media Release by Daylin Mitchell, Western Cape Minister of Transport and Public Works
I met with leaders of the taxi industry today in an effort to resolve the ongoing violence in Nyanga.
Buses, government vehicles and private vehicles have been set alight in the Nyanga area since last week. This caused serious disruptions and unrest in the community.
The taxi industry leaders joined me in condemning the violence in the strongest possible terms as well as the criminal acts that have been reported in the last few days.
The taxi industry is on record as distancing itself from the violence and criminal acts that are currently happening in the area.
It is important to note that the unrest in Nyanga is not only about transport issues but is also the result of criminal activity. I have a duty to protect public transport commuters and other road users.
If the violence continues, I will have no option but to exercise my power and invoke Section 91 of the National Land Transport Act (Act 5 of 2009) in the interest of bringing stability and peace in the area. The Act empowers me to identify and close ranks and routes affected by the disruptions in the event that the violence continues or escalates.
There will be ongoing discussions with the taxi industry to find lasting solutions to the concerns raised.
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Media enquiries
Ntomboxolo Makoba-Somdaka
Spokesperson for Minister Daylin Mitchell
Cell: 082 953 0026
Email: Ntomboxolo.Makoba-Somdaka@westerncape.gov.za