KEY POINTS
- Authorities investigate an arson attack that destroyed at least 13 taxis.
- City officials pledge support for police and increased security efforts.
- Santaco calls for peace and a resolution to tensions at the taxi rank.
Authorities in Cape Town are investigating an arson attack that left at least 13 taxis destroyed at the Nyanga Taxi Rank on Sunday night.
The City of Cape Town and law enforcement officials have vowed to bring those responsible to justice.
Brigadier Novela Potelwa, a police spokesperson, confirmed that emergency responders were called to the scene. This was after flames were seen coming from multiple taxis.
Official reports show that the destruction affected three taxis while serious damage targeted 13 others.
Law enforcement in the Western Cape has since deployed additional police officers to the affected zone, to maintain security and suppress additional disturbances.
City officials condemn violence, urge calm
Speaking on Monday, Alderman JP Smith, Cape Town’s MMC for Safety and Security, expressed concern over rising tensions at the taxi rank.
“While SAPS leads the investigation, we are committed to boosting visible policing efforts and working closely with law enforcement,” Smith said.
According to IOL, he noted that firefighters responded to the scene at 10:30 p.m., and the fire was completely extinguished by 11:40 p.m.
“It is highly unlikely that this attack was accidental,” Smith added. “This comes just weeks after a deadly shooting at the same taxi rank, which led to multiple arrests.”
However, the City has pledged full support for SAPS to ensure that the investigation moves quickly. The city also stated that those responsible would face justice.
Santaco calls for peaceful resolution
The South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) has strongly condemned the burning of taxis, calling it an unacceptable act.
“We will be engaging with the leadership of the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (Cata) to understand the situation and find a peaceful resolution,” Santaco said in a statement.
Moreover, the organization emphasized that violence will not solve the industry’s challenges. All parties were asked by the organization to cooperate in creating a secure environment for drivers and commuters.
Furthermore, anyone with information about this incident must report it to law enforcement agencies.
