Mkhwanazi issues strong warning to striking taxi drivers in Durban

KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi stated that they will set an example for the striking taxi drivers who obstructed the N3 in Durban.

Long-distance drivers who are members of the Durban Taxi Association have been on strike for five days, leaving hundreds of commuters stranded.

NHLANHLA MKHWANAZI WARNS STRIKING TAXI DRIVERS

According to Independent Online, the drivers are on strike because 81 vehicles were impounded by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport’s public enforcement programme, Shanela.

The publication reported that taxi owners pleaded with Transport MEC Sboniso Duma to release the impounded vehicles, but he reportedly refused. The owners allegedly urged Duma to cease Shanela’s services, but he also refused.

Durban Long Distance Taxi Association spokesperson Bhekisisa Nzuza told Daily News that the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport allegedly assured taxi operators that permits were ready for collection. However, according to taxi owners, there were none.

On Monday and Tuesday, the taxi drivers allegedly blockaded major routes on the N3 in Durban.

Following the incident, KZN top cop Mkhwanazi said they would find the striking taxi drivers who blocked the roads and set a good example.

“Everyone has a right to strike; the only thing that is not allowed is for one to interfere with the rights of other individuals who are not part of the strike.

“So, those that have participated in the strike, especially within the taxi industry, should do so within the law and not interrupt other people. Once they interrupt other road users, they’re no longer exercising their rights but committing crime.,” he said.

Mkhwanazi said they are currently on the hunt for the owners of the taxis that have been blocking the roads in Durban.

“We’re hunting for those who’ve blocked trucks and took the keys out of them. We will find them, and we will set a good example so that everyone understands. We will always tell them that if they want to protest, they should do it within the ambits of the law. So, within the taxi industry, if they want to down tools and not pick up anyone, they can do so without forcing another person to participate,” he emphasised.