‘A cloud of violence hangs over the taxi industry’ - National Taxi Alliance

702’s Clement Manyathela speaks with Theo Malele, Spokesperson of the National Taxi Alliance.

Listen below:

The taxi industry is massive, providing a livelihood for many drivers and owners.

However, the industry can be dangerous for those who work in it.

Three taxi drivers were shot and killed in Soweto on Monday morning.

The deceased were members of the Witwatersrand African Taxi Association (Wata).

Malele says the tension in this industry must be resolved through dialogue or there will be more violence in retaliation.

“It is unfortunate that the industry is being characterised by this cloud of violence.”

- Theo Malele, Spokesperson - National Taxi Alliance

Violence does not only impact the drivers, it also harms commuters.

There have been reports of taxi patrollers harassing people in private vehicles and hitchhikers for 'costing them business'.

“I must concede that as an industry we are not the best when it comes to behaviour on the roads.”

- Theo Malele, Spokesperson - National Taxi Alliance

Malele admits this is a big problem but says it is not entirely the industry’s fault.

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He says the lack of support for the taxi industry has placed pressure on people and led to this behaviour.

However, he says that does not justify violence.

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview for more.