Soweto Residents Block Roads After E-Hailing Driver Killed In Maponya Mall Attack

Tensions flared in Soweto on Thursday morning as angry residents blocked roads with rocks near Maponya Mall, following the killing of an e-hailing driver the night before. Police confirmed that four suspects opened fire on the driver before setting his vehicle ablaze.

Another e-hailing driver was also targeted in the attack but managed to flee, despite being injured. A passer-by was wounded by a stray bullet and taken to hospital.

Authorities believe the incident is linked to ongoing tensions between the taxi industry and e-hailing operators.

Standoff Between Soweto Residents and Police

The mood outside Maponya Mall quickly turned hostile as residents confronted police officers trying to keep order. Some officers were seen moving their vehicles further from the scene as the situation grew increasingly tense.

Community members, visibly angry, were seen turning back vehicles and using rocks to block key roads in the area.

Violence Adds to Growing Transport Sector Tensions

The attack has heightened fears of renewed violence in the long-running conflict between traditional taxi operators and e-hailing services. Police remain on high alert, monitoring the area to prevent further escalation.

The South African Police Service has not announced any arrests, and investigations into the suspects and their motives are ongoing.

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