Local Gov, CODETA & SANTACO meet to discuss ongoing taxi violence

The Western Cape Mobility Department, along with the City of Cape Town’s Urban Mobility Directorate, met with local taxi associations SANTACO Western Cape and CODETA on Thursday to discuss measures to end the ongoing taxi violence in the metro.

According to the department, CATA did not attend the meeting, citing prior commitments outside the province. The department has, however, indicated that it will hold a meeting with the CATA and CODETA leadership on Monday to address outstanding disputes and work towards a lasting resolution to the ongoing taxi violence.

Western Cape Minister of Mobility, Isaac Sileku, says while government acknowledges the apology from CATA, its absence from such an urgent engagement is deeply disappointing, particularly given the loss of life.

The provincial government and City are reportedly strengthening their collective response through legal intervention, regulatory action, and increased law enforcement, with the Office of the Premier forming part of the coordinated government effort.

“SANTACO Western Cape and CODETA acknowledged the gravity of the situation and the urgent need to restore stability.”

The Department has added that it will continue its regulatory processes, including an inquiry into alleged violations by identified taxi associations and an urgent court application to clarify operating rights.

The City has committed to maintaining a strong law enforcement presence in affected areas and supporting the province’s legal action. The Department is also exploring additional transport services if taxi operations are disrupted.

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde says if taxi leaders are not prepared to negotiate peacefully, they must expect authorities to take the requisite steps to bring order and the rule of law to the taxi sector.

“We recognise the importance of the taxi industry in the broader public transport environment. But we will never condone violence that puts commuters and other members of the public in danger. Our priority remains protecting lives and shielding the economy from disruptions” added Winde

The Western Cape Minister of Education, Jaco Londt, has also raised concern about the impact the ongoing violence has on schools and for the safety of our teachers and learners, especially during the National Senior Certificate exams. Londt says the department’s exam teams have contingency plans in place for any potential disruptions, ranging from weather and power outages to gang activity and protests.

“We work closely with SAPS and safety structures to ensure safe passage for learners, with police visibility where needed. Our priority is always the safety of our candidates and staff, while protecting the integrity of the NSC exams. Psycho-social support measures are available to schools on request,” said Londt

Provincial Minister Police Oversight and Community Safety, Anroux Marais, said it is unacceptable that already stretched policing resources must repeatedly be diverted from communities plagued by gang violence and killings to respond to disputes within the taxi industry.

“We commend the SAPS and the City of Cape Town’s enforcement agencies for their coordinated planning and integrated deployments to stabilise the situation.”