At least 20 vehicles were destroyed in a fire at Nyanga taxi rank late last night. According to the City’s Fire and Rescue Services firefighters were called out to the Nyanga taxi rank at approximately 22:30, last night.

At least 20 vehicles were destroyed in a fire

Spokesperson Jermaine Carelse says multiple vehicles were on fire when crews arrived. He says strong winds hampered their efforts to extinguish the blaze. They eventually managed to douse the flames by 23:40.

READ MORE: Office of the Provincial Commissioner Western Cape

Brigadier Novela Potelwa said, “Local police and fire services were called out to the taxi hub after flames were seen coming from some vehicles.”

Several vehicles were destroyed in the incident. This includes 13 taxis, four Sprinter buses and a civilian vehicle. He says no one was injured.

A case of arson to be investigated at Nyanga taxi rank

Carelse said that at this stage, the cause of the fire is still unknown. He says the scene was later handed over to the South African Police Service for further investigation.

“Official reports also indicate that three minibus taxis were destroyed and 13 damaged as a result of the fire that is probed by police,”  said Brigadier Novela Potelwa.

Meanwhile, Police have deployed additional officers to the taxi rank, following last night’s incident. The Provincial Police Commissioner says a case of arson is being investigated.

Nyanga Taxi Rank Open

His spokesperson, Brigadier Novela Potelwa says the deployed forces will remain in the area until calm is restored. She says at the same time, that the taxi rank remains open for commuters. She says no one has been arrested yet.

SANTACO responds

SANTACO Western Cape has condemned the incident and called on those who are involved in these actions to find a peaceful resolution.

“We, the Provincial structure will be requesting a meeting with the Executive of Cata to brief us regarding the happenings, where we will be encouraging them to meet with those parties involved to find an amicable solution. SANTACO-WC is committed to working towards ensuring a peaceful and a stable taxi industry, which will continue to serve the people of our province. Anyone with any information should approach the relevant law enforcement agencies.”