Tensions are running high in Soweto as angry residents vow to shut down Maponya Mall for seven days unless urgent measures are taken to safeguard shoppers, e-hailing drivers, and visitors. The threat follows a violent outbreak between taxi operators and e-hailing drivers that left one person dead, several injured, and two vehicles burned.
On Thursday morning, residents blocked Chris Hani Road, the main route leading to the popular shopping destination, preventing any entry or exit. Protesters say the ongoing conflict between the two transport sectors has spiralled out of control, turning the mall into a danger zone.
Deadly Confrontation
According to Gauteng police spokesperson Dimakatso Nevuhulwi, a case of murder, attempted murder, and arson has been opened after Wednesday night’s violent incidents. Police confirm that one person was burned to death, while two others sustained gunshot wounds when their vehicles were attacked near the mall. Several others were rushed to hospital. The suspects remain at large, with both SAPS and the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) deployed to maintain order.
Community leader Thabang Moloi voiced the residents’ frustration, stressing that the safety of ordinary citizens is the priority.
“We do not know who is fighting who, and we do not care. What we care about is people’s lives. Our lives here as customers are at risk. Yesterday, an elderly woman in an Uber narrowly escaped being hit by bullets. We want Maponya Mall management to address the community directly. That’s our demand.”
E-Hailing Industry Calls for Intervention
National e-hailing spokesperson Vhatuka Mbelengwa condemned the violence and expressed solidarity with the community. He described the attacks as a direct threat not only to e-hailing drivers but to public safety as a whole.
“The e-hailing industry remains committed to serving the community. But we cannot do so if our drivers and passengers are under constant threat. The government must step in to mediate and put an end to this violence,” he urged.
Mbelengwa stressed that the deadly rivalry between taxi operators and e-hailing drivers has persisted for too long, creating an unsafe environment in many parts of the country, with Soweto now a flashpoint.
Community Demands and Mall’s Role
Protesting residents insist that Maponya Mall management must take an active stance on the crisis. They argue that as a hub for local economic activity, the mall has a responsibility to engage with authorities, ensure proper security measures, and protect both customers and transport service providers.
While the mall has yet to release an official statement, public pressure is mounting. Many believe that visible collaboration between management, law enforcement, and transport stakeholders could help restore calm.
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Uncertain Days Ahead
For now, Chris Hani Road remains blocked, businesses are disrupted, and tensions are simmering. Residents say they are prepared to keep the mall closed for the full seven days if their safety concerns are not addressed.
The violence at Maponya Mall is the latest in a series of clashes between traditional taxi operators and e-hailing drivers, highlighting the urgent need for a sustainable resolution that prioritises lives over rivalry.
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