In photos — Sporadic violence, death in Cape Town as taxi strike spirals out of control

Do not give in to these criminal thugs, please!

If there was any doubt as to the lawlessness of the so-called taxi 'industry' the past few days in Cape Town has removed any uncertainty. The MBT gangs and cartels are systemically anarchic, self-centred, of demonstrable criminal intent and anything but industrious. For decades Santaco, its affiliated and perpetually squabbling taxi associations, non-tax compliant taxi owners and their reckless driver hencemen have waged a high intensity and selfish war against the government, fellow citizens, public transport infrastructure and law and order throughout SA. For the first time in 30 years one city and its law enforcement agencies have drawn a line in the sand in the interests of all its citizens, especially commuters. This is Cape Town! If there was ever a time to turn back the tide of wanton criminality that has been plaguing our communities and roads in SA for decades it is NOW. Much strength to the long arm of the law in SA !!

What about the creation of a”Taxi Appeals Tribunal” to provide speedy resolution of impounding and fine grievances ? A three-person tribunal sitting full time, with one member from Law Enforcement, one from the Taxi Association and one Independent; funded equally by the City and the Taxi Association. Its objective: dealing with specifics rather than what appears to be a futile attempt to solve the overarching and seemingly intractable differences between the parties. Can be up and running in a fortnight, offering an outlet for frustrations on both sides ( and can be refined as it operates.)

This is a truly monumental struggle. The Cape government cannot stand down. If they do, it would be a complete capitulation to gangsterism. I sincerely hope this was thought through & loins were girded. It is a must-persevere situation.