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Western Cape Premier condemns taxi violence

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Western Cape Premier Alan Winde has condemned the violence which broke out during a taxi strike in Cape Town.

A number of passengers were injured after three Golden Arrow buses were set alight in Nyanga, Bloekombos and on Eisleben road.

It’s not clear whether the incident is related to the taxi strike.

Thousands of commuters have been left stranded as taxis affiliated to the associations, Cata and Codeta suspend their operations for the day.

Winde says industry leaders had committed to a peaceful protest to hand over a memorandum of their grievances to provincial authorities.

He, however, says some elements in the industry have not honoured the commitment.

Winde says, “There has been absolute disruption of our economy. There have been attacks on Golden Arrow buses, on infrastructure being set alight, damage to private property and even threats to our citizens. This is unacceptable and our government strongly condemns this violent acts. I absolutely respect the rights of anybody to raise issues to even protest, but not to disrupt in this way. This has been disruptive, I call on the SAPS to make sure we restore law and order.”

Taxi operators are planning to march through the CBD, to the Western Cape Legislature, where they are expected to hand over a memorandum of grievances later.

In Nyanga, there’s a heavy police presence as commuters seek  alternative modes of transport.

Commuters fear for their safety after several vehicles were torched on Thursday morning.

There have also been reports of vehicles set alight in Kraaifontein.

The N2 highway heading into Cape Town is being obstructed with taxis as the drivers make their way to the CBD to take part in a planned march.

Last year, there was sporadic incidents of shooting, allegedly related to warring taxi associations Cata and Codeta in the Western Cape:

Additional reporting by Corbin August.

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