Johannesburg – In Soweto, a vehicle affiliated with the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has struck three individuals during protests between opposing minibus taxi groups.
The ongoing disputes between the Witwatersrand African Taxi Association (WATA) and the Nancefield Dube West Taxi Association (NANDUWE), who have battled for route rights for years, intensified into a protest on Monday, 10 March 2025.
Taxi operators organized a demonstration that halted traffic in Soweto by blocking roads with their minibuses.
In regards to the incident, JMPD Spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla confirmed that two individuals hit during the protests have died.
A male taxi operator was declared dead at the scene, while a woman succumbed to her injuries after arriving at the hospital.
Kaya News has revealed that the deceased woman was 49-year-old Nkele Sehube.
Outlining the events leading to the incident, Superintendent Fihla noted: “At approximately 06:10 this morning, JMPD officers responded to reports of road blockages in Mofolo Central, Soweto, stemming from ongoing taxi operator protests at Machaba Drive near Elias Motsoaledi Road.”
Superintendent Fihla added: “While responding, a JMPD vehicle collided with a Nissan Tiida.
“This collision resulted in the Metro Police vehicle hitting three pedestrians who were on the roadside.
“Seven individuals were involved in the incident, including two JMPD officers, two passengers of the Nissan Tiida, and three pedestrians. Unfortunately, two pedestrians have lost their lives.”
Additionally, JMPD received reports about road blockages at the intersection of Klipspruit Valley Road and Kumalo Road in Orlando West, apparently due to the route conflict between WATA and NANDUWE.
Superintendent Fihla also reported incidents of vandalism and stripping of minibus taxis at Moroka Nancefield Road and Elias Motsoaledi Road in Mofolo South.
“We confirm that all impacted routes have been reopened for traffic, and law enforcement is actively monitoring these areas,” Superintendent Fihla stated.
“A case of culpable homicide will be lodged at the Moroka South African Police Service for an in-depth investigation.”
