Police have launched an investigation into a deadly shooting in Marlboro, Johannesburg, which claimed the lives of Alexandra, Randburg, Midrand and Sandton Taxi Association (ARMSTA) Chairman Victor Molefe Moekeletsi and his bodyguard on Thursday morning.
According to Gauteng Police, the shooting occurred on 8th Street in Marlboro, where two vehicles — an Audi and a Mahindra bakkie — were travelling together when they came under fire from unknown suspects driving a white BMW X5.
Police confirmed that the driver of the Audi and one passenger from the Mahindra bakkie were declared dead at the scene. Three other occupants of the bakkie sustained gunshot wounds and were taken to hospital for treatment.
Two civilians, who were not involved in the incident, were also injured when their vehicle collided with the Audi after its driver lost control amid the gunfire.
The suspects’ vehicle was later discovered abandoned a few kilometres from the scene. The suspects remain at large, and the motive is suspected to be taxi violence-related**, as one of the victims was identified as a member of a local taxi association in Alexandra.
Police have opened two counts of murder and five counts of attempted murder.
“The suspects are unknown at this stage, and investigations are underway,” said Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi, spokesperson for the Gauteng Police.
The City of Johannesburg’s Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Public Safety, Dr Mgcini Tshwaku, expressed deep sadness and outrage at what he described as the “cold-blooded killing” of Mr Moekeletsi and his bodyguard.
“This assassination, executed in broad daylight just a minute from the Alexandra Taxi Association offices, spits in the face of the peace agreement signed only five weeks ago on 19 September at Kwa-Bhekilanga Sports Grounds,” said Dr Tshwaku.
“It is a calculated attempt to reignite the taxi wars that have cost too many lives and livelihoods.”
A second bodyguard and an innocent motorist are reported to be fighting for their lives in hospital after being caught in the hail of bullets.
In response to the attack, Dr Tshwaku has directed the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) to increase visibility in Alexandra, Marlboro, and surrounding areas, deploying Tactical Response and K9 Units to deter retaliation and safeguard commuters.
JMPD is working in close cooperation with the **South African Police Service (SAPS)** to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
> “The Department of Public Safety calls on taxi associations, community leaders, and residents to reject the path of vengeance and allow the law to take its course,” Dr Tshwaku added.
The City of Johannesburg has extended its condolences to the families of the victims.
“Our heartfelt condolences go to the Moekeletsi family, the bodyguard’s loved ones, and members of ARMSTA,” the statement concluded.
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