Cape Town’s central business district (CBD) was the site of violent confrontations between taxi drivers and law enforcement officers as the authorities continued impounding vehicles. The situation has drawn criticism from opposition parties, including the ANC and EFF, who accuse the city administration of human rights violations.
Opposition Parties Accuse City of Heavy-Handedness
Neville Delport, ANC Provincial Secretary, likened the city’s actions to apartheid-era dictatorship, particularly when dealing with issues affecting the poor and working class in the Western Cape. Delport stated that minibus taxi operators have been in constant communication with the city, requesting that their operational vehicles not be impounded while they await permit approvals. Despite the ANC’s counsel, the city’s response has been met with violence rather than constructive dialogue.
Similarly, Ntsikelelo Tyandela, Cape Metro regional chairperson for the EFF, accused the city of deliberately delaying taxi operating permits to frustrate the operators. Tyandela warned the city against prioritizing newly enacted by-laws that enable officers to impound taxis rather than issuing fines. He urged the authorities to engage the industry and issue permits, lest their excessive use of force leads to disastrous consequences.
Unrest Intensifies Following an Assault on a Traffic Officer
The tumultuous situation began when city traffic services impounded 15 public transport vehicles in the area, prompting taxi drivers to block the station deck taxi rank and surrounding areas. The unrest intensified following an assault on a traffic officer, leading the SAPS Public Order Policing Unit to intervene, supported by the Metro Police Tactical Response Unit. Officers encountered resistance and used stun grenades and tear gas to restore order.
City officials have received numerous complaints about public transport operators flouting traffic rules. In one incident, a taxi driver ignored a red light, leading to a routine traffic stop by two City traffic officers. The driver and a passenger allegedly attacked the officers, who retaliated by firing shots, injuring one of the assailants.
City Officials Stand Firm on Maintaining Law and Order
JP Smith, Safety and Security Mayco Member, expressed his commitment to maintaining law and order, refusing to yield to intimidation by those who believe they can violate the law without facing consequences.
