I condemn in the strongest possible terms the violence that has once again erupted between minibus taxi associations this morning. We have closed the Delft PTI due to the outbreak of violence, which is rooted in various long-standing taxi route disputes in the area. Reports indicate violence has also spread to Mfuleni and Gugulethu. 
 
This violence stems from longstanding disputes between CATA and CODETA over minibus taxi routes and operating rights, particularly in Delft, Khayelitsha and Somerset West. Years of mediation, negotiations and even High Court intervention have failed to bring about a lasting resolution. The latest tensions centre on contested routes between Delft, Epping and Killarney, with the very real danger that violence could spread to other major commuter corridors. Thousands of passengers depend on these services every day, and the consequences of further escalation would be devastating. These disputes must be resolved through lawful processes and meaningful engagement, not intimidation, shootings, and bloodshed.

The City is monitoring the situation closely, and resources have been deployed to protect commuters and public transport infrastructure. We will keep commuters informed of any changes to the operational status of our facilities as the situation develops.

My immediate concern is for the thousands of commuters who rely on minibus taxis to get to work, school, and other essential destinations every day.

My concern is how the thousands of commuters making use of minibus taxis will be impacted should this violence spill over to the busier Delft routes. The consequences for commuters, many of whom have no alternative means of transport, could be significant. It is a disgrace that innocent people endure the disruption and trauma of warring taxi bodies.

These are ordinary Capetonians trying to go about their daily lives. They should never have to fear for their safety simply because they need to catch a taxi.

The City is monitoring developments closely and resources have been deployed to protect commuters and infrastructure.
 
The Urban Mobility directorate continues to invest significant resources in improving public transport facilities and infrastructure, and we do so because hundreds of thousands of Capetonians depend on these services to go about their daily lives.
 
But that investment must be matched by a commitment from the industry to the safety and wellbeing of the people it serves.
 
I am calling on the CATA and CODETA leadership to immediately bring their members to order and put an end to this violence.
 
Violence and intimidation have no place in our public transport spaces and those responsible must be held accountable.
 
To those responsible for these attacks: shame on you. Your lawlessness and terrorism will face the full might of the law.
 
No route, no territory and no commercial dispute is worth all the injuries, trauma and human lives lost as a result.
 
There are lawful ways to resolve disagreements and both the City of Cape Town, and the Western Cape Provincial Government remain available to assist in facilitating mediation of disputes.
 
Our commuters deserve to travel safely, without fear, and to know that they will make it home to their families at the end of the day.
 
This violence must stop. Now.