In a shocking act of violence, Molefe Moekeletsi, chairperson of the taxi association representing the Alexandra, Randburg and Midrand corridors, was shot and killed along with his bodyguard in the Sandton area on Wednesday evening.
The double homicide occurred shortly after the pair left a late meeting close to one of Sandton’s busy traffic arteries. According to witnesses, assailants opened fire from a moving vehicle, striking both men before fleeing the scene. Emergency personnel arrived quickly but the two victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
Moekeletsi had served as the head of the local taxi‑association sector and was regarded as a prominent figure in the regional minibus‑taxi industry, which has long struggled with turf rivalry and violence. Sources inside the association say the chairperson had recently pushed for tighter regulatory enforcement and greater accountability among operators in the Alexandra, Randburg and Midrand zones.
In the wake of the killings, the South African Police Service (SAPS) stated detectives from the provincial organised crime unit had taken over the investigation. “This appears to be a targeted attack,” said a police spokesperson, noting that motive remains under investigation. The taxi industry in Gauteng has seen a disturbing uptick in deadly attacks in recent years.
Industry colleagues expressed alarm. One senior operator said, “We are devastated. Molefe was trying to make changes. If the leadership is under attack, they’ll back off.” Community leaders in Sandton and Alexandra called for calm and urged the police to swiftly bring those responsible to justice.
The association has announced a temporary suspension of its operations until further notice. Members say they will convene an emergency meeting to determine how to proceed with leadership and to address the growing climate of fear among taxi‑operators and commuters alike.
Authorities are appealing to anyone with information about the shooting to report to the nearest police station or contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111.