Cape Town Taxi Owner Killed Was Off-Duty Police Officer, Confirms SAPS

Cape Town police have confirmed that the taxi owner shot dead in Lwandle near Strand on Thursday morning was an off-duty officer. The 42-year-old man, affiliated with the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA), was ambushed by unknown gunmen while driving.

Police spokesperson Malcolm Pojie said:

“It is alleged that the deceased was driving down the street when unknown gunmen opened fire on him and fatally shot him in the upper body. The deceased lost control of his vehicle which came to a halt against a fence of a residence.”

Taxi Violence Grips Cape Town Again

Authorities believe the attack is linked to ongoing tensions between CATA and the Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (CODETA) over routes to Somerset West. Just two weeks ago, five people were killed and nine others — including commuters — were injured in violent clashes at taxi ranks in Philippi East, Khayelitsha, and Macassar.

By law, police officers are prohibited from being involved in the taxi, security, or alcohol industries.

The suspects responsible for the officer’s murder remain at large. Pojie confirmed that police have launched a manhunt and urged the public to assist.

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“The motive is believed to be taxi-conflict related. The suspects are yet to be arrested. We appeal to anyone with information to contact Capt Lukhanyo Magadla of the Provincial Detectives Serious and Violent Crime on 082 411 3245, or alternatively Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or via the MySAPS mobile application, anonymously.”

Police continue to monitor hotspots across Cape Town as taxi-related violence threatens commuters and communities.

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