28 May 2024 | 09:26 AM UTC
South Africa: Increased security likely in coming days following taxi-related violence in Mthatha, Eastern Cape Province, on May 27 /update 1
Increased security likely in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, South Africa, after taxi-related violence on May 27; airport reopened, traffic resumed.
Increased security is likely in and around Mthatha, Eastern Cape Province, in the coming days after an episode of taxi-related civil unrest on May 27. The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has been deployed to assist local police forces in securing the area. Travel along the N2 and R61 highways has resumed, and the nearby Mthtatha Airport (UTT) has reopened. Some services, including the local Walter Sisulu University, remain closed; local hospital services have been disrupted. Reports suggest five individuals were arrested for allegedly firing on security services.
On May 27, minibus taxi operators hijacked several trucks and used them to block the town’s entries and exits along the N2 and R61. They were reportedly demanding authorities return weapons that had been confiscated by police on May 24, after a spate of deadly violence between the rival Uncedo Service Taxi Association and Border Alliance Taxi Association (BATA). Gunshots, acts of arson, and looting targeting stranded vehicles were reported. The unrest disrupted freight travel, hospital services, and local voting stations.
Increased security is likely in the coming days as security services secure the town. Measures could include checkpoints, car searches, road closures, or overnight curfews. Further unrest remains possible should negotiations between rival operators and police forces collapse. Further acts of riot, arson, and looting are possible. Transport and freight delays along affected routes are likely.
Avoid the area if possible, and preferably use alternative routes to circumvent the town. Monitor the situation closely. Heed instructions from authorities. Do not attempt to cross protester roadblocks, and depart the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Plan for localized business closures, increased employee absenteeism, and possible disruptions to health and administrative services.
The minibus taxi industry is responsible for a significant portion of South Africa's transport services. However, it is poorly regulated and often has links to gangsterism. In Mthatha, the Uncedo Service Taxi Association and BATA have been warring for the past month, likely over taxi routes. This recently culminated in a series of shootouts in May 2024, resulting in at least six deaths.
