Gunmen tragically killed a ride-hailing driver in Johannesburg on Wednesday, marking the latest violent episode between online operators and traditional taxi drivers.
Ride-hailing drivers in South Africa have increasingly faced repeated deadly attacks by taxi and minibus drivers who accuse them of undercutting their businesses. Four armed men approached a ride-hailing vehicle outside a bustling mall in the Soweto township, shot the driver, and then set his vehicle ablaze.
These same gunmen also fired upon a second ride-hailing vehicle nearby, but its driver managed to escape before his car was also torched. According to police reports, at least two people, including an innocent passer-by, were tragically wounded in the gunfire during the terrifying attack.
A case of murder, attempted murder with two counts, and arson has been officially opened for further investigation into the shocking incident. Police stated that the violent and destructive incident was “suspected to be taxi violence related,” which is a sadly recurring problem in the city.
Minibus taxis are the primary mode of transport for most South Africans, but their services are notoriously chaotic and often governed by criminal networks. Deadly turf wars between rival taxi associations are unfortunately very common, leading to frequent outbreaks of violence and tragic loss of life.
Drivers operating via ride-hailing apps are frequently barred by the threat of violence from picking up passengers in areas dominated by minibus operators. Dramatic footage of the two vehicles engulfed in flames quickly circulated on social media platforms, further highlighting the terrifying nature of the attack.