The South African National Taxi Council, or SANTACO, which represents taxi drivers across the country, launched protests on Thursday after negotiations broke down with Cape Town authorities, who decided to impound vehicles for offenses such as driving without a license or license plates.
At least five people were killed in the riots that shook the Cape Townamid protests that began last week by taxi drivers, South African authorities announced today.
The South African National Taxi Council, or SANTACO, which represents taxi drivers across the country, launched protests on Thursday after negotiations broke down with Cape Town authorities, who decided to impound vehicles for offenses such as driving without a license or license plates.
When police confiscated taxis last week, violent incidents followed.
In some cases, buses and cars were set on fire, while security forces men were attacked with stones.
Among the victims is a 40-year-old Briton who was shot on Thursday, Police Minister Becky Chele said today, adding that 120 arrests have been made in recent days for damage to foreign property, looting and violence.
The taxi drivers’ union says its members are not responsible for the wave of violence rocking Cape Town.
Because of the episodic protests, the residents of the South African metropolis face problems in their movements.
“In Cape Town, violence will never be tolerated as a bargaining chip. We call once again on SANTACO to return peacefully to the negotiating table,” stressed Mayor Gordin Hill-Lewis.
Source :Skai
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