Authorities say the fugitive is linked to four murder cases.
Key Points:
- Western Cape police offered R100,000 taxi hitman reward for Vuyo Tshukela.
- Tshukela is linked to four murders in Philippi East, Nyanga, and Delft.
- Police urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stop or MySAPS.
Police identify suspect tied to taxi-related killings
Western Cape police have offered a taxi hitman reward of R100,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest of Vuyo Tshukela, also known as Yeso. Officers identified Tshukela as a suspected hitman responsible for a series of taxi-related murders in Cape Town.
Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Pojie, the provincial police spokesperson, confirmed that a court issued an arrest warrant for Tshukela. He explained that investigators believe Tshukela committed several murders tied to taxi violence in the region.
“Tshukela is on the run,” Pojie stated. “We linked him to at least four murders. These incidents occurred in Philippi East and Nyanga during August 2024. We also connected him to two other murders in Nyanga and Delft during September 2024.”
Furthermore, Pojie warned that Tshukela is armed and dangerous. His alleged crimes have deepened concerns about the persistent violence within Cape Town’s minibus taxi sector.
Reward issued amid rising taxi violence
Taxi violence continues to escalate in Cape Town. Rival taxi associations frequently clash over routes and territorial control, creating a dangerous environment for commuters and operators.
As a result, police introduced the taxi hitman reward as part of an aggressive strategy to curb the bloodshed. Authorities believe that public assistance can help break the cycle of violence and bring dangerous suspects like Tshukela to justice.
Pojie urged the public to come forward with any useful information. He asked individuals to contact Lieutenant Colonel Julian Tarentall at 082 559 4645 or Captain Lukhanyo Magadla at 082 411 3245. Additionally, people can submit anonymous tips through Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or the MySAPS mobile app.
Public support critical to arrest
Police say community cooperation remains essential in their effort to apprehend Tshukela. Officers have pledged to use every available resource until they catch him.
“We will not rest until we arrest him,” Pojie said. “He must be held accountable for the lives lost.”