Taxi War Tragedy: Santaco Demands Justice After Atlantis School Shooting Kills Two

The South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) in the Western Cape has called on police to urgently prioritise the investigation into a deadly taxi-related shooting in Atlantis that left two people dead.

The incident unfolded on Wednesday outside Atlantis Senior Secondary School in Palmer Avenue, sending shockwaves through the community.

Businessman Eugene Titus and a 14-year-old Grade 8 pupil were killed at the scene. Two other learners sustained injuries.

Santaco Condemns ‘Senseless Act of Violence’ in Atlantis

In a statement issued on Friday afternoon, Santaco described the circumstances surrounding the deaths as devastating and unacceptable.

The council stressed that commuters — particularly schoolchildren — should never be exposed to danger due to suspected conflict within the taxi industry.

Santaco Western Cape chairperson Mandla Hermanus extended condolences to the affected families and community.

“We are deeply saddened and outraged by this senseless act of violence that claimed innocent lives and traumatised an entire community. As Santaco Western Cape, we unequivocally condemn any actions that endanger commuters and undermine the stability of our industry.

“The protection of our passengers, especially children, is non-negotiable and remains our highest priority. We urge law enforcement to prioritise the case and pledge our support in efforts to get the perpetrators brought to book,” Hermanus said.

The council also appealed for calm and encouraged all disputes to be resolved through lawful and structured processes. Santaco reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside government and law enforcement agencies to restore stability and ensure accountability.

R100,000 Reward Offered as Mayor Steps In

On Thursday, Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis announced a reward of up to R100,000 for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible.

“We stand with the peace-loving residents of Atlantis who should not have to suffer because of the internal fights between taxi bosses. We mourn deeply together with the families of the victims, including the 14-year-old Grade 8 learner tragically gunned down this week.

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“I have now instructed that the City offers a reward of up to R100,000 for information that leads to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible. Anyone who can help should please come forward, and may do so anonymously,” Hill-Lewis said.

Mayoral committee member for safety and security, Alderman JP Smith, confirmed that the City’s Safety and Security Investigations Unit (SSIU) had been made available to assist with the probe.

“Action must be taken against those responsible for this shooting. At the same time, the City is pushing to finalise amendments to the Traffic By-law so that we can act more decisively against vehicles operating illegally. I support the mayor’s call for a reward and call on the community of Atlantis to help us with information related to this killing,” Smith said.

Authorities are urging members of the public to provide anonymous tip-offs by calling the 24/7 hotline on 0800 00 6992 or emailing SSIMS.SSIURreporting@capetown.gov.za.