In an incident that unfolded on Tuesday morning, three people lost their lives and five others were injured, including a young boy, in what appears to be a feud between two taxi associations.
The incident took place at the Port St Johns taxi rank, involving associations operating in the Lusikisiki/Port St Johns areas, according to the police.
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Preliminary reports suggest that a shoot-out occurred between the two taxi associations. As a result, three security officials from one association in Lusikisiki were fatally injured, while five individuals from the Port St Johns side sustained gunshot wounds.
Tragically, an 11-year-old boy was also hit by a stray bullet and was rushed to the hospital for treatment. Additionally, three vehicles were set ablaze during the attack.
Law enforcement authorities have taken swift action, arresting nine individuals in connection with the incident. The police have also pledged to remain in the region until the situation stabilizes.
Expressing their concern, Provincial Police Commissioner Lt-Gen Nomthetheleli Mene condemned the incident and emphasized that such lawlessness would not be tolerated, as innocent lives are at risk.
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In response to this tragic event, Lt-Gen Nomthetheleli Mene called upon all stakeholders to come forward and engage in constructive discussions, urgently seeking a solution to avoid any further loss of lives.
Eastern Cape – #TaxiViolence the war zone that is Port St Johns https://t.co/tzeVxGmJAi pic.twitter.com/6aKrHcUoSX
— TrafficSA (@TrafficSA) January 16, 2024
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