The South African Police Service (SAPS) has outlined a series of actions aimed at addressing violence at taxi ranks and curbing the circulation of illegal firearms in communities. These initiatives come amid mounting public concern over ongoing criminal activity and recent high-profile incidents, such as the fatal shootings of six community members in the Marry Me Informal Settlement in Gauteng.
Tackling Taxi Rank Shootings
In response to repeated incidents of violence at taxi ranks, often the result of disputes between rival taxi associations, SAPS has ramped up intelligence-led operations. These efforts focus on high-risk areas, where a multi-disciplinary strategy is deployed. This includes profiling known offenders, linking them to specific incidents, and intensifying operations in identified hotspots.
Coordination with the Department of Transport and increased collaboration with taxi associations have been prioritised, with the aim of improving information sharing and monitoring potentially volatile rivalries. SAPS has also enhanced visibility at taxi ranks and along major taxi routes, implementing so-called “disruptive actions” in locations identified as violence-prone.
However, the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen, as sporadic shootings continue to pose a threat to commuters and bystanders.
Firearms Crackdown, Ambitions and Realities
SAPS has confirmed the existence of a national programme targeting the proliferation of illegal firearms. Under Instruction 03 of 2025, the National Crime Combating Forum (NCCF) introduced a revised Overarching Crime Combating Strategy, covering the period from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2029. This strategy is framed as a continuation and intensification of Operation Shanela.
The plan is designed to be multi-sectoral, involving government departments, law enforcement, and community organisations. It includes intelligence-driven patrols, high-visibility policing, and a mix of conventional and “unconventional” crime-fighting tactics. These efforts aim to remove illegal firearms from circulation and dismantle criminal networks.
Still, the real test will be whether these measures can yield tangible results on the ground, especially in areas where violent crime has become deeply entrenched.
When it comes to direct intervention in cases like the Marry Me Informal Settlement killings, SAPS has not committed to a specific timeline. While the overarching strategies suggest an ongoing clampdown on organised crime and firearm-related violence, communities continue to demand urgent, visible action.
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