Residents of Atlantis are gripped by fear following a series of deadly shootings believed to be linked to ongoing tensions in the taxi industry. The recent violence has left families mourning, commuters traumatised and a community calling for urgent intervention.
The first incident unfolded on Tuesday evening at a busy taxi rank in the area. Gunshots rang out during peak commuting hours, sending people scrambling for cover. Two men were shot during the attack. One died at the scene, while the second later succumbed to his injuries in hospital.
Police confirmed that the matter is under investigation by the Taxi Violence Investigation Unit, which handles cases related to taxi-industry conflicts. Although no arrests have yet been announced, authorities believe the shooting may be connected to ongoing disputes over routes and operations among rival taxi groups.
Community members described scenes of chaos and panic. Commuters who were waiting for transport said they feared for their lives as bullets flew through the crowded rank. Many expressed frustration that violence tied to the taxi industry continues to place innocent bystanders in danger.
Tragically, the bloodshed did not end there. Just a day later, another shooting shook the community — this time outside Atlantis Secondary School. A gunman opened fire on a school transport vehicle, killing a 42-year-old taxi driver and a 14-year-old Grade 8 learner. Two other teenage girls were wounded in the attack and rushed to hospital for treatment.
The death of the young learner has particularly devastated the community, with parents voicing concern about the safety of children travelling to and from school. Schools are meant to be safe spaces, residents said, yet violence has now reached the gates of a local educational institution.
Local leaders and community organisations have condemned the attacks, describing them as senseless and unacceptable. They have called on law enforcement agencies to intensify patrols and bring those responsible to justice before more lives are lost.
The City of Cape Town has also responded to the crisis. Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis announced that a reward of up to R100 000 would be offered for information leading to the arrest and successful prosecution of those behind the killings. He emphasised that residents should not have to live in fear because of disputes within the transport sector.
Community members say the repeated incidents have left them traumatised. Many are now afraid to use taxi services, particularly during busy periods or after dark. Parents are reconsidering transport arrangements for their children, worried that they could be caught in crossfire.
While police investigations continue, residents are urging authorities to address the root causes of taxi violence and ensure long-term stability in the industry. They argue that without decisive action, the cycle of retaliation and bloodshed will continue to endanger innocent lives.
For now, Atlantis remains on edge — a community mourning its dead, supporting grieving families and hoping for swift justice to restore peace and safety to its streets.
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