Since the start of the taxi strike in Western Cape on Tuesday 1, August 2023, the SAPS has over the past week observed an upsurge in serious crime.
Analysis of crime has shown the diversion of forces from key policing priorities has resulted in the unfortunate escalation of crime in the City of Cape Town District.
Apart from the inconvenience commuters and road users are currently suffering, the stay away has also adversely impacted on health services, schooling and the economy.
It is also regrettable that during the action resulted in the loss of life.
A total of FIVE murders were recorded during the period in question.
Thursday, at the Ntlangano Crescent, Nyanga. 40 year old male was shot and killed. Police investigations have revealed that this is a British National
Friday, 20:15, Miller Road in Nyanga a LEAP Officer was shot and killed while on duty.
Saturday a yet to be identified male was killed in Mfuleni.
Monday, on Airport Approach Road, another yet to be identified male was shot killed.
Monday, another yet to be identified male was shot and killed in Borcherds Quarry Road, Nyanga.
Law enforcement agencies have had their hands full since Monday, 07 August in dealing with sporadic incidents such as stone throwing, road blockades, looting, arson related incidents and public violence.
ARRESTS
Since Thursday, 3 August 2023 Police have arrested 120 suspects for various offences including malicious damage to property, public violence and looting.
An integrated operation involving the SAPS, City of Cape Town’s Traffic Services, Metro Police embarked on an operation on Monday to clear Airport Approach Road in order to allow the free flow of traffic to Cape Town International Airport.
That operation resulted in the impoundment of 53 minibus taxis.
Meanwhile the investigations into the five murders, attempted murders, public violence, arson, armed robberies, carjacking and numerous cases of malicious damage to property continue.
Police remain on high alert and will respond to any and all eventualities.
We are making a clarion call to all parties involved to move with speed in ensuring the impasse is resolved.
We are also calling on the Taxi industry to keep within the law and that when there is conflict all negotiations avenues are exhausted for the sake of citizens.
Law abiding citizens are urged to, within the parameters of law assist in ensuring that all acts of criminality are reported to the police.
In closing, I want to again set the record straight with regard to my attendance in meeting with the Taxi industry role players.
It is within the mendate of the Ministry responsible for preventing, combating and investigating crime, to intervene and avert any planned course of action that may adversely affect citizens.
At no point will I as National Minister of Police, agitate for a strike; as has been suggested by officials of the City of Cape Town.
No Minister could have gone there to agitate the strike and it is nonsensical that I could be accused of such.
Source: Government of South Africa