Three Security Guards Arrested After Alleged Attack On E-Hailing Driver And Passengers In KwaNdengezi

Three security guards have been arrested following a violent incident involving an e-hailing driver and his passengers in KwaNdengezi, west of Durban.

Police have also launched an investigation into the security company connected to the suspects for possible violations of the Firearms Control Act.

The arrests come after a video of the incident circulated widely, sparking outrage and renewed concerns about the safety of e-hailing operators in the province.

KwaNdengezi E-Hailing Driver Allegedly Chased And Assaulted

KwaZulu-Natal police said the incident unfolded when an e-hailing driver stopped to collect passengers along the MR518 road.

According to police spokesperson Robert Netshiunda, the driver’s vehicle was allegedly blocked by two security vehicles.

“Information suggests that the driver of an e-hailing vehicle was picking up passengers on the MR518 road when he was blocked by two security vehicles,” said Netshiunda.

“The driver managed to drive away, but he was followed, and his vehicle was bumped into by one of the security guards’ vehicles and came to a standstill. During that moment, one of the security guards reportedly shot the tyre of the e-hailing vehicle, whilst the other two security guards were allegedly assaulting the driver.

“The driver was rescued by police officers who were in the vicinity.”

The suspects were subsequently arrested as investigations into the incident intensified.

Firearms Seized As Probe Into Security Company Continues

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport confirmed that authorities had confiscated several weapons linked to the suspects.

Department spokesperson Ndabezinhle Sibiya said three firearms had already been seized while investigators were still tracing a fourth firearm believed to have been used during the attack.

Sibiya added that the suspects were allegedly linked to a local taxi association.

“The MEC’s office has met with the family of the driver. Efforts are being made to meet with the family of the female victims,” says Sibiya.

“We are currently arranging the necessary counselling for the victims.”

Authorities are also investigating the security company associated with the arrested guards as part of ongoing enquiries under the Firearms Control Act.

E-Hailing Council Condemns Attack On Driver And Passengers

The KwaZulu-Natal E-Hailing Council has condemned the incident and called for those responsible to be held accountable.

Council representative Mzo Ngcobo said there were allegations that attempts were being made to persuade the driver to withdraw the case, while the passengers intended to continue pursuing legal action.

“I think it’s going to be a lesson to those who did that. They must not do that. They must stop it because at the end of the day, we’re all working… so they must stop doing what they’re not supposed to do,” says Ngcobo.

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He stressed that e-hailing operators and private motorists have the right to transport passengers without interference.

“They know [that] they’re not allowed to stop any private cars or e-hailing cars; anyone is allowed to take whoever you want to take with your car. Whatever they’re doing is totally wrong, they [drew their] guns on Wednesday.”

Police investigations remain ongoing as authorities work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.