Mthokozisi Mvelase the e-hailing driver killed at Maponya Mall on 13 August. Image: Mthokozisi Mvelase/Facebook via East Coast Radio.
(The Post News) – The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) has announced that it will cover Mthokozisi Mvelase’s (27) funeral. Mvelase, an e-hailing driver, died a week ago in a dispute between the e-hailing industry and the taxi industry. SANTACO also condemned the brutal killing of Mvelase by alleged taxi drivers.
The news announced today follows nationwide backlash and communal protest against the taxi industry following the events of August 13 at Maponya Mall. Four taxi drivers allegedly shot at two e-hailing vehicles and then set them on fire on that Wednesday night.
Attackers first stopped Mvelase’s car, shot him, and set the vehicle on fire with his body inside. The attackers also shot at a second vehicle, hitting the driver. However, the wounded driver fled before the attackers set his car on fire.
SANTACO President Motlabane Tsebe confirmed the organization has made arrangements to transport Mvelase’s body from Gauteng to KwaZulu-Natal. He further added that the organization will cover all of the family’s burial costs and support the family.
SANTACO’s Mandlakapheli Hermanus expressed that they are not “proud” of handling Mvelase’s funeral, as he should not have been killed. Meanwhile, Tsebe stressed that SANTACO will not shield members and fully supports the police in their search for finding those involved. He also said his members were not involved but promised to expel and hand over suspected members to the police.
Tsebe added that violence is “inhumane, criminal, and unacceptable.” Therefore, the organization strongly condemns violence and maintains that it will have no place in the taxi industry. SANTACO aims to rebuild public trust and maintain peace with other transport options in the transport industry. Hermanus explained that they understand that their livelihood is reliant on peace because violence chases away customers.
The organization plans to go to Maponya Mall to engage with operators over customer complaints. They also intend to say a prayer there.
Please share your thoughts, contact Lukhona via email: journalist-lukhona@thepostnews.net
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