Shock video: Guards open fire on e-hailing driver
DURBAN — KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma has issued a strong condemnation following a violent attack on an e-hailing driver in the KwaNdengezi area. The incident, which was captured on video and circulated widely on social media, involved the harassment and intimidation of a driver while he was transporting female passengers.
The video footage allegedly shows security guards, reportedly hired by the KwaNdengezi Taxi Association, brandishing firearms and forcing the driver to offload his passengers. Reports indicate that shots were fired at the vehicle’s tyres, causing the driver to lose control and collide with another car. The KZN e-Hailing Council alerted provincial authorities to the distress after the footage surfaced.
MEC Duma confirmed that a multi-disciplinary team has been assigned to investigate the assault. This team includes representatives from the Public Regulatory Entity and Operation Shanela, working alongside the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Metro Police. The MEC has specifically requested that ballistic experts conduct an examination of any cartridges found at the scene to assist in the criminal investigation.
The provincial government is also calling on the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA) to launch an immediate inquiry into the conduct of the security company involved. MEC Duma stated that the guards must be investigated for potential violations of the Private Security Industry Regulation Act, emphasizing that the brandishing of firearms in public transport disputes is unacceptable.
This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between traditional taxi associations and e-hailing services in KwaZulu-Natal. The province has frequently grappled with issues of territorial disputes and the regulation of transport operators, which often impact the safety of commuters. Government officials remain under pressure to provide a secure environment for all transport providers to operate without fear of violence.
MEC Duma reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to maintaining stability within the public transport sector. He noted that authorities will continue to work with the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) and other stakeholders to prevent further escalations of violence. The investigation aims to identify the perpetrators and ensure that legal consequences follow the blatant violation of transport and security laws.
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