Soweto Residents Demand Maponya Mall Closure After Deadly E-Hailing Violence

Natalie Nyathi

Following a deadly attack on e-hailing drivers, residents of Soweto have taken to the streets, demanding a seven-day shutdown of Maponya Mall. The violent incident, which occurred on Wednesday night, resulted in the death of 27-year-old e-hailing driver Siyanda Mthokozisi Mvelase and injuries to two others.

Enraged by the brazen violence, community members, workers, and e-hailing drivers have united in protest. They are calling for the mall’s closure as a sign of respect for the deceased and to address the ongoing safety concerns. Additionally, protesters are demanding the removal of the mall’s current security company, accusing them of failing to maintain order and protect shoppers and drivers.

The protests have caused significant disruption, with residents blocking roads and preventing both taxi and e-hailing services from operating in the area. The community has also halted trading at the mall, demanding a resolution to the conflict between the e-hailing and taxi industries and improved security measures. The action is disrupting business, with workers fearing job losses if customers avoid the area due to safety concerns.

Gauteng police spokesperson Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed that a case of murder, attempted murder, and arson is under investigation. Police are investigating the possibility that the attack is linked to ongoing tensions and violence between taxi operators and e-hailing services.

The South African National Taxi Council in Gauteng condemned the killing and violence, urging the public to avoid speculation that automatically places the taxi industry at fault.

The situation remains tense, with a heavy police presence monitoring the area. Gauteng Transport MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela has condemned the attack, calling it senseless and unacceptable. She is scheduled to meet with community leaders and representatives from both the taxi and e-hailing industries to discuss a path forward.

This is not the first instance of violence between taxi operators and e-hailing services at Maponya Mall. Similar attacks occurred in June 2023, highlighting the urgent need for a long-term solution to the conflict. Some reports indicate that after the June violence, the Soweto United E-hailing Association and the Soweto Taxi Association agreed to ban Uber and Bolt drivers from operating at malls in Soweto for three months.

Residents express fear for their safety, stating that certain areas of Soweto have become “no-go zones” for e-hailing drivers. The community is demanding that authorities take immediate action to protect drivers and ensure the safety of all residents.