13 April 2000
The South African Communist Party in KwaZulu Natal condems the recent killing of seven taxi commuters in Kranskop by a bloodthirsty unknown man who just opened fire on a traveling taxi. The problem of taxi violence has been a serious headache in the Kranskop and KwaDukuza areas for a long time, and there have been hopes that the situation is now under control. The recent act has poured water on efforts the Ministry of Transport in this province has been putting to end taxi violence in this Province. We urge the Provincial government to immediately take major steps in curbing the violence affecting the taxi industry in this part of the Province.
The SACP is angry with taxi owners and operators who in the course of their competition on passengers result in the killing of the very same passengers. The fact that the captains of this industry go as far as killing innocent passengers is an issue that warrants serious State intervention to protect citizens from these greedy people. We are encouraged about the reports that police service is on top of the situation. This brings hopes that the perpetrator will soon be apprehended. We express our deepest condolences to the bereaved families, and assure them that the police will apprehend the murderers soon.
Contact
Smiso Nkwanyana
SACP Provincial Secretary
KwaZulu Natal
082 468 7184
031 301 3806