Violence erupted at Nyanga taxi rank on Sunday night when three taxis were set alight in what is suspected to be a petrol bomb attack.
Nyanga taxi rank goes up in flames after alleged petrol bomb attack
Witnesses reported hearing gunfire in the vicinity, intensifying concerns that ongoing tensions between taxi associations in Cape Town are escalating.
Sources at the scene alleged that the confrontation involved rival groups from the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA) and the Congress of Democratic Taxi Associations (CODETA), two of the most dominant taxi associations in the Western Cape.
A Western Cape Gangwatch post circulating online on Sunday night read:
“[Three] taxis alight. Nyanga taxi rank. Petrol bombs and shooting in progress. CATA and CODETA at it again. Please confirm and update.”
Authorities have yet to confirm the cause of the fire, but the attack follows a string of violent incidents linked to the ongoing taxi war in the region.
In a previous escalation, a shooting incident at the same rank earlier this year left one taxi security guard dead and seven others injured.
Is the taxi rank safe?
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has ramped up security at Nyanga taxi rank and surrounding areas.
In a media statement released last month, SAPS confirmed they had confiscated 13 rifles and seven handguns from security personnel associated with taxi operations.
Nineteen security guards were also taken in for questioning following an exchange of gunfire that left multiple people injured.
Authorities believe the violence stems from disputes over control and financial contributions within the taxi industry.
“The investigation is currently in the hands of the provincial taxi task team,” SAPS said.
Some public transport users are opting for alternative travel arrangements as they await official confirmation from SAPS regarding safety at the rank.
For now, commuters using Nyanga taxi rank are advised to remain vigilant and stay updated on police reports before travelling.
Law enforcement authorities are expected to issue a full statement soon.