MEC Nqatha Issues Stern Warning to Taxi Operators Blocking R61 Near Ngcobo

Eastern Cape Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha has issued a strong warning to taxi operators allegedly responsible for the blockade of the R61 near Ngcobo, following reports of a violent protest that has brought the movement of goods, services and commuters to a standstill.

Taxi Protest Causes Chaos in Ngcobo

Reports indicate that a serious taxi-related protest erupted in Ngcobo yesterday. The demonstration was reportedly triggered by the South African Police Service (SAPS) decision to escort Intercape and other long-distance buses in the area. The escort followed last week’s shooting incident, in which a passenger was fatally injured and two others were wounded.

Allegedly, taxi operators instructed all public transport drivers not to carry passengers, leaving scores of commuters stranded overnight.

By this morning, the situation escalated, with the R61 completely shut down by heavy-duty vehicles placed across both sides of the town. Some of these trucks were reportedly hijacked and used to blockade the national route, effectively paralysing mobility on one of the province’s strategic transport corridors.

MEC Nqatha Condemns Blockade

MEC Nqatha condemned the protest in the strongest terms.

“We will not tolerate acts of lawlessness disguised as protest. The blockading of a major route, the alleged hijacking of trucks, and the deliberate endangerment of innocent commuters is criminal — not industrial action. The right to protest cannot supersede the rights of communities to safety, mobility and access to essential services,” he said.

The MEC called on SAPS to act decisively to restore order without delay, emphasising that public safety remains the Department’s foremost priority. He also urged taxi leadership to immediately rein in their members, return to the negotiating table, and engage lawfully on grievances.

“We cannot build a transport system under siege. Any operator or association found to be involved in criminal conduct must face the full might of the law. Our roads cannot be used as bargaining chips,” added MEC Nqatha.

Authorities Working to Restore Mobility

The Department of Transport continues to monitor the situation closely, working with SAPS, local authorities and affected stakeholders to stabilise mobility in the Ngcobo area. Commuters and businesses in the region are being urged to exercise caution and follow official instructions until normal traffic flow is restored.