The Port St. Johns Local Municipality has warned the public to avoid the R61 when coming to Port St. Johns following the ongoing taxi violence.
Three people were shot dead while six others were injured in a shootout between warring taxi associations at a taxi rank in Port St. Johns.
It’s alleged that the violence is between Ncedo Taxi Association from Lusikisiki and Border Alliance Taxi Association from Port St. Johns.
According to provincial police spokesperson Colonel Priscilla Naidu, preliminary reports indicate that on Tuesday morning, two taxi associations were engaged in a shootout at the Port St Johns taxi rank.
“It is further alleged that three security officials from one taxi association from Lusikisiki were fatally injured.”
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She said five other people from the Port St Johns side sustained gunshot wounds.
“During the attack, an 11-year-old boy was hit by a stray bullet and was taken to hospital for treatment.”
Naidu said multi-disciplinary forces are on the ground.
“Nine suspects have been arrested so far, and police will remain in the area until the situation stabilises.”
Naidu said all nine suspects are expected to appear in court soon.
In condemning the attack, provincial commissioner Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene urged feuding taxi associations to work together and find amicable solutions to their ongoing disagreements.
“Such lawlessness will not be tolerated, as innocent lives are at risk.”
Mene called on all stakeholders to come forward and engage in constructive discussions.
“And to urgently find a solution so as to avoid further loss of life,” he said.
