The police in Qwaqwa are investigating a murder case after the body of a man identified as a taxi owner was found dead in his private car.

The owner was allegedly sitting inside his driving school vehicle when two unknown men approached him, pretending to enquire about driving lesson prices on Thursday, 15 August. One of them allegedly shot him several times before fleeing the scene in a Toyota Yaris.

‘The person was identified as a taxi owner’

“When police arrived there was someone seated inside a white Toyota Etios with an FS registration. Upon further inspection, the person had blood all over his body and was identified as a taxi owner working at the Majakathata’s taxi rank,” said Free State police spokesperson Mmako Mophiring.

“The motive for the killing is not yet known.”

Qwaqwa United Taxi Association (Qwauta) confirmed he was a member of theirs and a taxi boss. 

Qwaqwa United Taxi Association chairwoman Matshediso Nteo. Photo: Daily Sun/ Joseph Mokoaledi

“We can confirm the deceased is our member and his brutal murder has shocked us as we do not know the cause of the attack,” said Qwaqwa United Taxi Association chairwoman Matshediso Nteo.

“This is the fourth member of our organisation who was brutally killed in such a manner. We fear for our lives and we are asking ourselves who’s next – this is a bloodbath.”

We can’t rule out the possibility that the death of the taxi boss might be related to taxi violence and if it is we need to debate and find solutions to end our differences. We call on the cops to bring those heartless perpetrators to book, she said.

Phuthaditjhaba police have urged anyone with information that may lead to the arrest and conviction of the suspect to contact the Phuthaditjhaba Detective Service, Lt. Col. Milela at 079 889 3311 or Crime Stop at 08600 10111.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame mvh/dg