Santaco strongly condemns taxi violence

National taxi council, Santaco is calling for peace in the KZN taxi industry. 

This after an attack in Ladysmith claimed the lives of 11 people yesterday. 

Five people - including the deputy chairperson of a local taxi association - were killed when gunmen opened fire on their bakkie on the N11. 

The bakkie then crashed head-on into another vehicle transporting teachers to a nearby school, claiming six more lives. 

Santaco's BB Zondi says the council stands against violence amongst taxi operators.

"Even though we don't know who did what - we still strongly discourage taxi operators killing each other. Let's hope the police are going to do everything that they can to find the people that have done this," he says.  

ALSO READ: 10 dead in Ladysmith taxi shooting, crash

Meanwhile, the KZN Education Department says it is in shock. Spokesperson, Kwazi Mthethwa has described the incident as heart-breaking. 

"As the Department of Education in KZN, we send our heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of those educators who lost their lives in a car accident," he says. 

KZN Premier, Willies Mchunu says the shooting was a result of a conflict over routes. 

He says there is a need to engage with all stakeholders to stabilise the industry in the best interest of commuters and the people of KZN. 

Police say a manhunt has been launched for those behind the attack.