KwaZulu-Natal police remain on high alert as the long-distance taxi strike in Durban enters its fifth day, continuing to disrupt commuter services and traffic flow.
Story Summary:
- KZN police are on high alert as the Durban long-distance taxi strike enters its fifth day, with commuters still affected.
- Police have condemned the strike as unprotected, launched a manhunt for road-blocking taxi operators, and vowed to enforce the law.
- Striking taxi operators are protesting the withholding of permits and the impounding of their vehicles by the provincial Department of Transport.
Durban taxi strike: Latest updates on Day Five
The strike, led by members of the Durban Long Distance Taxi Association, stems from grievances over impounded vehicles and operational permits.
KZN Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has labelled the strike as unprotected, emphasising that it was not properly organised.
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“What we’ve seen happening in the past few days on the taxi strike, it is not a legal strike…not all of [the association’s members] are involved in this strike,” Mkhwanazi stated.
Police have launched a manhunt for drivers and vehicle owners implicated in blocking roads and stopping trucks on the N3 towards Durban, creating significant traffic delays.
Striking taxi operators reportedly took truck drivers’ keys, leaving vehicles stationary and obstructing the highway.
Mkhwanazi warned that law enforcement would act decisively against any illegal activities linked to the strike.
“As we are trying to enforce the law, we are going to make sure that anyone that breaks the law, we are going to arrest you,” he asserted.
While acknowledging the right to strike, Mkhwanazi stressed that such actions should not interfere with the rights of other road users.
The police have called for an end to disruptions and are working to ensure safety for residents and commuters.
Metro police spokesperson Colonel Boysie Zungu reported that traffic disruptions caused by striking taxi operators on Tuesday morning had been resolved, and order restored.
Tensions over permits and impounded vehicles
The taxi operators have accused the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport and Human Settlements of withholding operational permits and refusing to release impounded taxis.
This standoff has left many daily long-distance commuters stranded.
As the strike continues, police and government officials are urging peaceful resolution and lawful conduct, while maintaining a strong presence to prevent further disruptions.
