Staff Writer
MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela together with the Gauteng
Taxi Industry met on Thursday evening to resolve an
impasse relating to Taxi services in Ekurhuleni.
MEC Diale-Tlabela strongly condemned the actions of
some operators who were alleged to have intimidated
and assaulted commuters on Wednesday afternoon.
 This
led to four members of the Taxi Associations being
arrested and charged for assault and damage to
property. 
Ten cars belonging to the suspects were also
impounded. "We will not allow lawlessness in our public
transport sector. 
Commuters have a right to choose any mode of transport
they prefer without any fear of intimidation. The arrest and
impoundment of the perpetrators should send a clear
message to those who think they can do as they please in
our province. I condemn in the strongest possible terms the
continuous killings associated with the taxi industry," the
MEC said. 
The MEC further indicated that the 6th administration has
for the first time invited the taxi industry to participate
through transformation in the bus operation as per the new
contract. 
"The taxi Industry, a previously disadvantaged industry let
alone not being subsidised and being the only black owned
industry in South Africa should be devoid of conflict and
disruption to realize their development and transformation, "
Diale-Tlabela said.
Taxi services have since been restored.