Soweto Taxi Boss Shot Dead on Soweto Highway | Police Suspect Taxi Violence

Soweto Taxi Association Chairperson Shot Dead on Soweto Highway

Johannesburg – A 50-year-old Soweto taxi association chairperson was shot and killed on Thursday morning along the Soweto Highway, in what police suspect may be linked to ongoing taxi violence in the region.

The incident occurred at around 9:00 am, when the victim, who was driving alone in a silver Toyota Hilux, was ambushed by suspects traveling in two vehicles — a minibus taxi and a Toyota Yaris. The suspects allegedly fired multiple shots at close range, killing him instantly.

Police Statement

Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed that the deceased was intercepted by the armed suspects while on his way to attend a scheduled taxi association meeting in town.

“The suspects stopped the victim and fired several shots. He was certified dead at the scene. While we cannot confirm the motive at this stage, we suspect that it may be related to ongoing taxi violence,” said Masondo.

He added that the matter will be referred to the Taxi Violence Task Team, which specializes in investigating disputes within the industry. Police have appealed to the public for information, urging anyone with knowledge of the suspects to contact their local police station or call the Crime Stop number 08600 10111.

Scene and Community Reactions

Reporters on the scene observed the victim’s vehicle riddled with bullet holes, particularly on the driver’s side, indicating a targeted hit. Family members and colleagues of the deceased gathered at the crime scene, many visibly distraught.

Taxi operators in Soweto expressed shock and frustration, saying the industry continues to be plagued by violent disputes that leave communities living in fear.

Ongoing Taxi Violence

Soweto, like several other parts of Gauteng, has seen recurring incidents of violence linked to taxi route disputes and power struggles within associations. Despite interventions by the Department of Transport and police task teams, deadly attacks on taxi operators and association leaders continue to destabilize the sector.

Police investigations are ongoing, and no arrests have yet been made.