brits taxi violence

Photo: Madibeng FM / FB

Brits wars: Taxi rank erupts in chaos as rivalries seek blood

One victim has been admitted to the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with serious head injuries, while another died in hospital.

brits taxi violence

Photo: Madibeng FM / FB

Commuters in Brits, North West, have been affected by the ongoing taxi violence in the city. A violent confrontation between two associations has resulted in death and the police are in search of those responsible.

Taxi wars in Brits: Why are associations at odds with each other?

The Behrens taxi rank has been the scene of chaos since Thursday. According to Madibeng FM, two taxi associations are at loggerheads over a route between North West and Johannesburg.

Police spokesperson Colonel Adele Myburgh revealed that a large contingent of public order police was deployed to Spoorweg Street on Friday, to contain the violence that had broken out between 07:40 and 14:40.

“At about 07:40, taxi violence erupted in Brits at the Behrens Taxi Rank. During the unrest, four taxis were allegedly damaged, after they were hit with knobkieries, iron rods, sticks and pelted with stones.

“Furthermore, at about 14:40, a different group allegedly stormed the Behrens taxi rank at Koperasie Street, also armed with dangerous weapons. They attacked individuals and damaged taxis. Five males were injured and taken to a local hospital for medical treatment,” Myburgh revealed.

Three of the victims were released from hospital with minor injuries. One victim has been admitted to the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with serious head injuries, while the fifth victim died in hospital.

No information is available at present about the identities of the victims. However, Myburgh indicated that at least 40 taxis have been destroyed in the violence.

“A total of 11 suspects were arrested by police between the ages of 16 and 60. The suspects will appear in the Brits Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 10 February 2020, for charges of Public Violence. Police are also investigating cases of murder, attempted murder, public violence, malicious damage to property and possession of dangerous weapons,” Myburgh added.

North West top cop, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena warned that law enforcement authorities will not tolerate lawlessness and that those responsible for these heinous acts must face the full might of the justice system.

“He urged all Taxi Associations in and around Brits to address their challenges through peaceful conduct and negotiations and gave the assurance that the police will continue to serve and protect the community to ensure that everyone is and feel safe,” the statement read.