Potchefstroom- On Thursday, 6 February 2020, at about 07:40, taxi violence erupted in Brits at the Behrens Taxi Rank situated in Spoorweg Street. 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. Three victims were released from the hospital shortly after receiving treatment, one victim was admitted in the hospital at the Intensive Care Unit with serious head injuries and one victim died in hospital. The deceased is estimated to be 40-years-old and his identity unknown. Moreover, an estimated 40 taxis were damaged during the second incident.
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.
Anyone with information that can assist police with investigations is requested to contact Lieutenant Colonel Pieter Claassens on Cell: 082 373 9831 or Sergeant Gomotsegang Boikanyo on Cell: 060 937 7745 / Tel: 012 318 6110. If you want to remain anonymous, you can also submit information on the MySAPSApp or by calling the Crime Stop Hotline number on 08600 10111.
The North West Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena condemned the incident and said police will not tolerate lawlessness and action that seeks to perpetuate anarchy, subvert the rule of law and infringement on the rights of others. He urges 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.