Taxi alliance boss gunned down in suspected Soweto hit
A manhunt has been launched after Gauteng National Taxi Alliance (NTA) chairperson, Thami Moyo (58), was shot dead in what is believed to be a hit linked to the ongoing wave of taxi violence in the province.
Moyo was driving alone along the Soweto Highway in Diepkloof at around 9.30am on Thursday when he was ambushed by suspects travelling in a minibus taxi and a Toyota Yaris. The assailants opened fire, killing him instantly. No valuables were taken from his vehicle.
Police confirm investigation
Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed the killing, describing it as a brutal, targeted attack.
“The victim was blocked by suspects who were driving in two vehicles. The suspects fired several shots at the victim. He was certified dead at the scene,” Masondo said.
While investigators have not yet officially established a motive, Masondo noted that Moyo’s position within the taxi industry makes a link to ongoing violence “highly possible”.
NTA spokesperson Theo Malele also confirmed the shooting but said details remain limited.
“Yes, we confirm the incident, but the details are still sketchy at the moment. We can confirm that it has happened,”.
Traffic chaos in Soweto
The killing caused major traffic disruption as crime scene investigators and emergency personnel sealed off the Soweto Highway in both directions between the N1 and Immink Drive.
Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) spokesperson Xolani Fihla urged motorists to use alternative routes.
“Emergency personnel and law enforcement officials are on scene. Motorists are advised to exercise caution and use the N1 and Immink Drive,” he said.
Growing tensions in public transport sector
Moyo’s assassination comes amid a bloody period for public transport operators in Gauteng.
Just weeks ago, on 13 August, e-hailing driver Mthokozisi Siyanda Mvelase was shot and set alight near Maponya Mall in Soweto in an attack linked to tensions between minibus taxi operators and e-hailing drivers. Two others were injured in that incident. No arrests have been made.
The police have confirmed that a specialised task team is investigating Moyo’s murder and pursuing leads to track down the suspects.
Follow Us on Twitter
