The City notes the circulation of statements and messages, accusing our enforcement agencies of brutality during a violent taxi blockade in the CBD earlier today.

For the record, the City’s Traffic Services impounded 15 public transport vehicles in the area, resulting in a blockade by taxi drivers of the station deck taxi rank and surrounds. 

The situation became more volatile, following an assault on a Traffic Officer, with the SAPS Public Order Policing Unit responding, supported by the Metro Police Tactical Response Unit. 

Officers came under fire, and responded using stun grenades and tear gas.

It was then discovered that several of the suspects had locked themselves in a taxi and senior SAPS officials ordered members to breach the vehicle. 

Officers responded by breaking a window, and removing the occupants from the vehicle.

Several suspects were taken into custody. 

The City will not be intimidated by those in the taxi industry who react violently to any attempts to enforce national legislation.

As we indicated once again recently, the City is inundated with complaints pertaining to public transport operators who do not adhere to the rules of the road – both from the public, but also legitimate operators who are bullied and intimidated by illegal operators.

The rules of the road apply to all, equally and the provisions of the law will be enforced without fear or favour.

There can be no justification for the mayhem that ensued today – no one grouping or entity is above the law.