Tourism Dept: Killers of UK tourist must be brought to book
The Tourism Ministry has called on law enforcement to bring to book the killers of a UK tourist who got caught up in the Cape Town taxi protest.
It's believed the 40-year-old was with two family members when they took a wrong turn from Cape Town International Airport and ended up in the midst of a taxi protest in Nyanga.
His vehicle was then allegedly approached by several people who shot him.
Five deaths have been reported since the action began over a week ago.
Officials say 120 suspects have been arrested for various crimes, including malicious damage to property, public violence and looting.
The tourism department's Zara Nicholson says the Western Cape government, the city and the taxi associations must urgently and peacefully resolve the dispute.
"Consider the broader and devastating impact of the taxi strike on the economy and the lives of local citizens and visitors in the City of Cape Town. It is really sad that a visitor has had such a devastating experience in our country, as this criminal behaviour goes against the overall spirit and nature of South Africans, who are generally warm and welcoming.
“The safety of all people and visitors to our country is a priority, and we are actively collaborating with authorities to ensure swift and calm resolution of all the issues that have resulted in these protests."
The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has put out a travel advisory, warning travellers of the violent protests.
