| 2023/09/04 |
Media Statement POLOKWANE - The South African Police Service in Limpopo took swift and decisive action to address violence between two taxi associations in Giyani policing area in Mopani District. A total of 11 suspects were arrested in connection with this taxi association feud that lasted for a couple of days. During the arrests, one licensed firearm was confiscated. In one incident that occurred on 24 August 2023 at about 08:30, a 48-year-old taxi driver was allegedly attacked and injured by a rival group driving a Toyota Quantum. During the attack, he stopped the vehicle, alighted and ran on foot. He was further attacked with stones and shots were fired at him. He managed to survive the attack with serious injuries. The confrontations between the two taxi associations, which have a history of disputes, escalated into violence over the past two weeks. Intensive investigations by the Provincial Taxi Violence Investigation Unit in conjunction with the Public Order Police (POPS) Unit and community members led to the identification and apprehension of the suspects believed to be involved in the violent clashes in an operation that was conducted from Sunday, 03 September until the early hours of Monday, 04 September 2023. The Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has condemned the violence and applauded this team for arresting the suspects which demonstrates the SAPS commitment to maintaining law and order and protecting the safety and security of all citizens. "We also appreciate the cooperation of community members and urge everyone to choose non-violent means to resolve disputes and conflicts. Violence only leads to harm and disrupts the lives of innocent residents," said Lieutenant General Hadebe. The arrested suspects aged between 34 and 64 will appear before the Giyani Magistrate's Court on Tuesday, 05 September 2023 facing charges related to public violence, assault GBH and attempted murder. Ends
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