In the early hours of this morning, at approximately 3 a.m., a devastating wave of violence erupted in what appears to be one of the most serious escalations yet in the ongoing conflict between taxi operators and Uber drivers. Reports indicate that a staggering 126 minibus taxis were set alight in various locations, leaving behind scenes of destruction, loss, and growing tension.
The incident comes shortly after allegations emerged that a taxi driver was involved in the killing of an Uber driver. While official details surrounding the alleged killing remain under investigation, the news has sent shockwaves through the public and intensified hostilities between the two transport sectors.
According to preliminary information, several fires broke out almost simultaneously, suggesting that the burning of the taxis may have been a coordinated act of retaliation. Eyewitnesses reported seeing flames engulfing rows of parked taxis, with thick smoke rising into the early morning sky. Emergency services rushed to the scenes to control the blazes, but by the time firefighters contained the flames, most of the vehicles had been reduced to twisted metal shells.
The dispute between traditional taxi associations and ride-hailing drivers has been simmering for years, driven by fierce competition over passengers and territory. Violence has periodically erupted, often targeting vehicles and drivers, but the sheer scale of this morning’s attack has left many fearing a dangerous new chapter in the rivalry.
Sources from the ride-hailing community claim that frustration has reached boiling point, with some Uber drivers allegedly vowing to take matters into their own hands. There are unconfirmed reports that certain drivers have threatened to begin targeting taxis parked at petrol stations during nighttime hours, a move that could escalate the situation even further if it materialises.
Authorities are now under mounting pressure to step in decisively. Police have cordoned off multiple affected areas and have launched a criminal investigation into both the taxi arson attacks and the earlier killing of the Uber driver. While no arrests have yet been confirmed, law enforcement officials have urged the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified claims that could inflame tensions.
Transport unions and associations on both sides have been quick to issue statements condemning the violence, though each has also accused the other of instigating the conflict. Community leaders are calling for urgent dialogue to prevent further bloodshed, warning that the economic and human cost of the feud is spiralling out of control.
The destruction of over a hundred taxis represents a massive financial blow to the taxi industry, which relies heavily on daily commuter traffic. For many drivers and owners, these vehicles are their only source of income, and the loss will likely have ripple effects across families and communities.
As investigations continue, the public watches anxiously, aware that without swift and effective intervention, the feud between taxi and Uber drivers could spiral into even more devastating acts of violence in the coming days.
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