As tensions continue to rise in the Atlantis area, following a surge in taxi-related violence this week, the City of Cape Town is offering a reward of R100 000 for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the latest attack, which resulted in the death a 14 year old learner from Atlantis High school and a 42-year-old taxi driver yesterday.

READ MORE: Outrage after Atlantis school shooting claims learner & taxi driver

Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis says the community has been hit by a spate of violent incidents, clearly linked to disputes within the taxi industry.

“We stand with the peace-loving residents of Atlantis who should not have to suffer because of the internal fights between taxi bosses. I have now instructed that the City offers a reward of up to R100 000 for information that leads to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible. Anyone who can help should please come forward, and may do so anonymously.”

Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, has pledged his department’s support, stressing that there is an urgent need to crack down on illegal taxi operations through amendments to the Traffic By-law.

“Action must be taken against those responsible for this shooting. At the same time, the City is pushing to finalise amendments to the Traffic By-law so that we can act more decisively against vehicles operating illegally. I support the mayor’s call for a reward and call on the community of Atlantis to help us with information related to this killing.”

As taxi-related violence escalates, authorities are appealing to the community for tips to help bring perpetrators to justice and restore safety in Atlantis.

Anyone with information can do anonymous tip-offs by calling 0800 00 6992 or emailing SSIMS.SSIUReporting@capetown.gov.za