A third taxi related murder in a matter of days has intensified fear across Cape Town’s taxi corridors, as violence once again claimed the life of a working driver in Seawinds. The killing, which unfolded in broad daylight, has heightened concerns among commuters and operators who rely daily on an industry already strained by long standing instability, economic pressure and territorial conflict. For many residents, the sound of gunfire has become an unwelcome reminder of how fragile safety has become on public transport routes.
This latest incident adds to a troubling pattern, with Cape Flats taxi drivers increasingly becoming targets in shootings that leave families shattered and communities anxious. While the industry remains a lifeline for millions, each violent episode chips away at public confidence and exposes the vulnerability of drivers who face danger simply by doing their jobs.
Attack In Broad Daylight
The shooting occurred on Wednesday afternoon at approximately 2.40pm, at the corner of St William Road and St Patrick Avenue in Seawinds. According to police, a 34 year old male taxi driver was ambushed by unknown assailants and sustained fatal gunshot wounds while inside his minibus taxi. The timing and location of the attack have raised alarm, as it happened during peak daytime activity in a residential area.
Emergency services responded swiftly, but the driver was declared dead at the scene. Shocked residents and fellow taxi operators gathered nearby, confronting once again the harsh reality of violence disrupting everyday life on the Cape Flats.
Police Investigation Underway
Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed that a murder case has been opened and that investigators are working to establish the motive behind the killing. At this stage, no arrests have been made, and the suspects remain at large, having fled the scene immediately after the shooting.
The circumstances surrounding a shooting incident on Wednesday, 17 December 2025, at about 2.40pm, on the corner of St Patrick Avenue and St William Road, Seawinds, where a 34 year old male was shot and fatally wounded are under investigation. Muizenberg police responded to a complaint of a shooting and upon arrival on the scene they found the victim inside a minibus taxi with gunshot wounds to his body.
Police have not ruled out any possible motive, and are examining whether the attack may be linked to ongoing taxi related tensions, criminal activity, or personal disputes.
Suspects Still At Large
Sergeant Twigg confirmed that the victim succumbed to his injuries before he could be transported to hospital, underscoring the brutality of the attack. The absence of immediate arrests has intensified anxiety within the taxi community, where drivers fear they may be next.
The victim was declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel. The motive for the attack is yet to be determined. The suspect or suspects fled the scene and are yet to be arrested. A murder case was registered for investigation.
Taxi associations have repeatedly warned that unchecked violence threatens not only lives, but the stability of transport services relied upon by working class communities.
Community And Industry On Edge
For residents of Seawinds and surrounding areas, the shooting has reinforced a sense of insecurity that extends beyond the taxi industry. Many commuters now travel with heightened caution, uncertain whether routes will remain operational or become flashpoints for further violence.
Industry insiders say drivers are under immense pressure, navigating competition, financial strain, and the constant risk of attack. Without decisive intervention, they warn, the cycle of retaliation and fear will continue to claim lives.
Public Urged To Assist
Police have appealed to members of the public to assist with information that could lead to the arrest of those responsible. Authorities stress that community cooperation is essential to breaking the pattern of violence that has plagued taxi routes.
Anyone with information related to the shooting has been urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or to submit tips anonymously through the MySAPS mobile application, as investigators work to bring accountability and restore a measure of safety to the city’s transport network.
