Johannesburg MMC Condemns E-Hailing Driver Killing in Pimville, Soweto

Johannesburg, Gauteng – Public Safety MMC Dr. Mgcini Tshwaku has strongly condemned the killing of an e-hailing driver in Pimville, Soweto, on Wednesday, calling the incident “tragic and uncalled for.” He expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and emphasized that conflicts in the e-hailing sector must never escalate into violence.

Longstanding Tensions Between E-Hailing and Taxi Operators

Dr. Tshwaku highlighted persistent conflicts between e-hailing operators and taxi associations, noting that the city has previously raised concerns about the way e-hailing services operate alongside traditional taxis.

“Accusations and counter-accusations have been leveled at various stakeholders for years. This should not have gone to the point where someone was killed,” he said.

In 2023, the city facilitated meetings to establish clear operational agreements: e-hailing vehicles must operate strictly through their apps, with no informal taxi services or “jikeleza” activities near taxi ranks. This agreement was largely respected for the past two years, Dr. Tshwaku said.

READ: Maponya Mall Attack: Gauteng Transport MEC Addresses E-Hailing Violence Crisis and on interventions amid tensions |

Challenges in Formalizing E-Hailing Services

Dr. Tshwaku explained that the lack of national legislation regulating e-hailing complicates enforcement.

“E-hailing operators have not yet been formally recognized under the law, which makes allocating ranks and permits difficult,” he said.

Despite these challenges, Johannesburg authorities, through the Metro Police Department’s Taxi Violence Unit, have actively mediated between taxi operators and e-hailing drivers. WhatsApp groups, regular meetings, and coordinated monitoring have been used to maintain peace.

Interim Measures to Prevent Conflict

The MMC emphasized ongoing efforts to regulate informal e-hailing operations and prevent clashes.

• Operators must have permits
• Formalized associations are required for e-hailing drivers
• Ranks must be respected by taxi operators
• E-hailing drivers must strictly use their apps

“Only then can we prevent such tragic incidents in the future,” Dr. Tshwaku said.

READ: Maponya Mall Reopens Amid Soweto Tensions After Deadly E-Hailing Attack |

Community Response and Calls for Accountability

Following the killing, residents of Pimville have threatened to shut down Maponya Mall for seven days, demanding accountability and justice. Dr. Tshwaku urged all parties to engage constructively with authorities to avoid further loss of life and property.