Mapaballo Borotho

- One person was killed and two others critically injured during violent protests at Maponya Mall in Soweto.
- The unrest is linked to tensions between taxi operators and e-hailing drivers.
- Gauteng’s Transport MEC condemned the violence and urged both parties to engage in peaceful dialogue.
Violent protests broke out at Maponya Mall, Soweto, on Wednesday afternoon, leaving one person dead and two others critically injured.
Preliminary reports suggest the unrest is linked to mounting tensions between taxi operators and e-hailing drivers. Gauteng police have opened cases of murder, attempted murder, and arson.
The incident comes just days after e-hailing drivers in Gauteng embarked on a strike, accusing service providers of exploitation, high commission rates, and a lack of meaningful engagement.
Gauteng MEC for Transport and Roads, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, said these violent incidents are senseless, unacceptable, and a direct threat to the safety and stability of South Africa’s public transport system.
“No grievance or commercial dispute justifies taking a life or putting innocent people at risk,” she said. “Violence of this nature undermines public safety, tarnishes the image of our transport sector, and cannot be tolerated under any circumstances.”Diale-Tlabela called on law enforcement to prioritise the investigation and bring the perpetrators to justice.
She also urged taxi associations and e-hailing operators to resolve disputes through peaceful dialogue facilitated by the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport.
HAPPENING NOW AT MAPONYA MALL:
— Kaya News (@KayaNews) August 14, 2025
– Following last night's torching of a vehicle, loved ones of the e-hailing driver have arrived on the scene and can be seen sweeping the ashes from the fire.
– Several community members are calling for the Mall to remain closed.#KayaNews KS. pic.twitter.com/n6aFyGYKMP
This is a developing story. For more information, follow @KayaNews on X
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