POLOKWANE - The Provincial Taxi Violence Investigation Unit in Limpopo is investigating a case of murder, cases of attempted murder as well as malicious damage to property following the violence that erupted on Friday 24 February 2023 at the Lebowakgomo taxi rank in which a local taxi owner aged 69, was fatally shot and taxis as well as private motor vehicles damaged.

It is alleged that a group of unknown suspects arrived at the taxi rank on foot at about 17:20 and started firing shots indiscriminately, while some of them threw stones at the taxis. Police and medical emergency services were called to the scene and upon arrival, they found that the suspects had already fled the scene. During the investigation, it was discovered that one of the taxi owners, who was sitting inside his private motor vehicle sustained multiple gunshot wounds. He was rushed to the hospital where he succumbed to the injuries on arrival. The deceased was identified as Joseph Madisha aged 69.

The Provincial Commissioner of police in Limpopo Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has condemned the incident and called on community members to come forward with information that can assist the police in their investigation.

The motive for the incident is still unclear but taxi violence cannot be ruled out. Police investigations are underway and no arrest yet.

Police have opened one count of murder, three counts of attempted murder and twelve counts of malicious damage to properties.

Police call on members of the public with information that can lead to the arrest of the suspects to contact Colonel Kgadiswana Mnisi on 0825658601 or call the Crime Stop number 0860010111. Alternatively they can send the information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.

Source: South African Police Service