Johannesburg – Vusi Mayaba, the chairperson of the Alexandra Taxi Association, has been shot dead in a targeted attack after leaving a restaurant in Woodmead last night.
The incident marks another tragic episode in a recent surge of violence affecting the Gauteng taxi industry. Just days ago, two other taxi owners from the same association were killed in a drive-by shooting in Midrand, raising concerns about an escalation of targeted attacks within the sector.
Johannesburg MMC for Transport, Kenny Kunene, expressed deep concern over the ongoing violence in the industry, highlighting the need for urgent interventions to safeguard taxi operators and commuters alike.
Gauteng police are investigating Mayaba’s killing and suspect it may be linked to ongoing conflicts within the taxi industry. Authorities are working to trace the perpetrators and bring them to justice, while also urging industry stakeholders to cooperate in curbing further bloodshed.
Taxi associations in Alexandra and across Gauteng have long struggled with internal disputes and competition over routes, and recent events have underscored the deadly consequences of unresolved tensions.
Mayaba’s death leaves a leadership vacuum in the Alexandra Taxi Association and adds to a growing list of high-profile attacks in the province. Community leaders and law enforcement have called for stronger protective measures for taxi bosses and drivers as tensions in the sector continue to mount.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has vowed a full investigation into the incident, appealing to the public for information that could assist in apprehending those responsible.