SANTACO Western Cape has called for calm and restraint after a Provincial Executive Committee Member, taxi leader Mongi Titi, was shot and killed in Nyanga.

Detectives from the Provincial Taxi Violence Unit responded to the shooting in Emms drive in Nyanga on Wednesday, 16 April at about 17:55.

It is alleged that unknown gunmen approached Titi as he was seated in his Toyota Fortuner parked near the Taxi rank, after which they opened fire on him.

Titi was declared dead on the scene by the medical personnel. The unknown suspects fled the scene in an undisclosed direction and are yet to be arrested.

SANTACO Western Cape has expressed its deep sadness and shock at Titi’s assassination.

Provincial chairperson Mandla Hermanus says it is a devastating loss to the organisation and to the industry at large. He has called for calm as police investigate.

“Mr. Titi was a committed leader who played a significant role in our ongoing efforts to build a more unified, safe, and professional taxi sector in the province. SANTACO Western Cape calls for a full and thorough investigation into this heinous crime, and we urge law enforcement authorities to act swiftly to bring those responsible to justice. We also call on anyone with information to come forward and assist the police in their investigation. In this moment of grief, we appeal for calm and restraint across all ranks and regions. Violence must not be met with violence. We are urging all stakeholders in the taxi industry to remain peaceful and allow due process to take its course. Now, more than ever, we need unity, stability, and discipline.”

Hermanus has extended his heartfelt condolences to Titi’s family, his colleagues within the taxi industry, and all those who knew and worked closely with him.

The MEC of Mobility Isaac Sileku has also conveyed his condolences.

“This tragic loss has sent shockwaves through the transport sector and the Nyanga community. I trust that the South African Police Service (SAPS) will conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that those responsible for this heinous act are swiftly brought to justice.”

Sileku has urged any eyewitnesses or members of the community who have information about the incident to come forward and cooperate with police.

“Only through community cooperation can a solid case be built, convictions secured, and this unacceptable ongoing cycle of violence ended.”

Sileku has echoed the sentiments of SANTACO that violence should not be met with violence.

“Retaliatory action will only escalate this violence and further entrench conflict in the community, putting the lives of innocent residents in danger. We cannot allow violence to become a permanent feature of our public transport system.”

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