Johannesburg – South Africa is grappling with a surge of deadly attacks targeting e-hailing operators, with 13 drivers killed in just two weeks, including the brutal murder of 27-year-old Siyanda Mthokozisi Mvelase at Maponya Mall in Soweto.
Mvelase was shot and set alight in his vehicle, an attack the E-hailing Partners Council (EPCO) has condemned as “deliberate” and “barbaric.”
A Pattern of Targeted Killings
The Maponya Mall attack is part of a disturbing trend of violence against e-hailing drivers in Soweto, Johannesburg, and Tembisa.
On 12 August, SAPS Lieutenant Colonel MJ Moletsane convened an emergency meeting after 12 e-hailing-related killings were reported in just one week. Police believe many of the incidents were execution-style murders.
EPCO acknowledged ongoing disputes over operating licences, pricing structures, and vehicle categories, but stressed that “no grievance can justify such senseless violence.”
Industry Leaders Respond
Bolt South Africa’s senior general manager, Lerato Mostoeneng, expressed outrage, saying:
“It is appalling that anyone should lose their life for trying to earn an honest living.”
Bolt confirmed that some of the victims were drivers on its platform and said it was working with authorities to bolster security in high-risk areas.
Uber South Africa also condemned the attacks, noting that while the affected drivers were not registered on its platform, safety across the e-hailing industry must remain a top priority.
Taxi Industry Denounces Violence
The South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) Gauteng branch distanced itself from the attacks, warning against speculation linking the taxi industry to the killings.
“Such assumptions not only harm the reputation of the industry,” Santaco said, urging the public to avoid unverified claims.
Call for Urgent Action
The killings have raised alarm over the safety of gig economy workers in South Africa. Industry bodies are now pushing for:
- Enhanced police protection in known hotspots
- Stronger regulations on operating zones
- Conflict resolution mechanisms between e-hailing services and traditional taxi associations
With tensions mounting and families left devastated, the e-hailing sector says it is time for government, law enforcement, and industry stakeholders to work together before more lives are lost.
