Gauteng police launch manhunt after taxi boss gunned down on Soweto Highway

Gauteng police have confirmed the launch of a manhunt for suspects involved in the murder of Gauteng National Taxi Alliance (NTA) chairperson Thami Moyo, 58, who was shot and killed in Soweto on Thursday morning.

Earlier, IOL News reported that Moyo was gunned down on the Soweto Highway in what is believed to be a hit linked to ongoing taxi violence.

NTA spokesperson Theo Malele confirmed the incident.

'The details are still sketchy at the moment. We can confirm that it has happened,” he said.

Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant General Mavela Masondo said the murder took place at approximately 9.30 am as Moyo was driving along the Soweto Highway in Diepkloof.

“The victim was blocked by suspects who were driving in two vehicles,” Masondo said. 

“The suspects fired several shots at the victim. He was certified dead at the scene.”

Masondo added that although the motive for the killing cannot be confirmed at this stage, it is suspected to be related to ongoing taxi violence.

“Police are appealing to anyone who might have information that can help in the investigation or assist in the apprehension of the suspects to please call the nearest police station or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111,” he said. 

“Information can also be given anonymously via the MySAPS app that can be downloaded from any smartphone.”

Moyo’s murder comes just weeks after another violent incident involving a public transport operator.

On August 13, e-hailing driver Mthokozisi Siyanda Mvelase was shot and burned to death near Maponya Mall in an attack believed to be connected to ongoing tensions between minibus taxi drivers and e-hailing services. 

Two others were injured in that incident. No arrests have yet been made.

simon.majadibodu@iol.co.za

IOL News