The Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Mr Jackie Macie, has requested the immediate deployment of a multi-disciplinary team of South African Police Service (SAPS) members.
The MEC was reacting to the recent escalation of taxi-related violence. The deployment is intended to help stabilise affected communities and ensure the safety of commuters, taxi operators and local residents.
The heightened tensions between the local taxi association and Umbutho, concerning the operation of seven-seater vehicles and route control, have resulted in troubling clashes.
These incidents not only endanger lives but may also lead to property damage and the disruption of essential public transport services. The Tonga policing area has been affected, and there is growing concern about the potential for broader community instability.
To address these issues, the MEC has called for the appointment and deployment of a comprehensive SAPS team comprising Operational, Detective, Crime Intelligence and Public Order Policing units.
Two crucial engagements are scheduled for Tuesday, 21 July 2026: an Operational Briefing at Tonga Police Station at 10:00, followed by a Stakeholder Engagement at Block B Hall at 14:00.
These engagements aim to:
Assess the current security situation and identify the underlying causes of the ongoing conflict.
Facilitate constructive dialogue among the affected parties and encourage lawful dispute resolution.
Develop immediate operational strategies and strengthen visible, intelligence-driven policing in the affected areas.
Rebuild public trust and ensure the safety of all commuters, operators and residents.
The MEC remains committed to safeguarding the well-being of all community members and will continue to work closely with SAPS to resolve these critical issues.
ENDS...
Issued by Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison.