Arrest Confusion in Rea Vaya Driver Killings as Police Deny Claims
City of Johannesburg Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Public Safety Dr Mgcini Tshwaku made a startling announcement on Wednesday regarding the arrests of suspects in the brutal killings of two Rea Vaya drivers. However, Gauteng police have refuted these claims, stating that no suspects have been detained in connection with the cases.
The tragic incident unfolded on Monday evening when suspects shot and killed two Rea Vaya drivers in separate incidents in Soweto. The heinous acts prompted other drivers to demand a long-term safety plan before returning to work, expressing their fear and concern for their safety.
Suspects Arrested at Moroka Police Station – MMC Tshwaku
MMC Tshwaku revealed on Wednesday afternoon that suspects linked to the drivers’ deaths had been apprehended at Moroka Police Station. He was in a meeting with the station commander to strategize on crime prevention measures and ensure that justice is served in the case.
Despite the announcement, Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi contradicted the claim, stating that no suspects have been arrested in connection with the killings. The police investigations are ongoing, and no arrests have been made thus far.
Tshwaku had previously attributed the driver killings to ongoing conflicts between the taxi association and Rea Vaya buses over feeder routes. He mentioned that four individuals had been taken into custody for questioning, but investigations are still underway. Tshwaku emphasized that violence is not the solution and called for a peace dialogue meeting with stakeholders to address the tensions and ensure safety in Johannesburg.
Rea Vaya Drivers Shaken
Visiting the Soweto bus depot, reporters witnessed a bus marred with shattered glass, bullet holes, and bloodstains, a grim reminder of the tragic events. A long-time Rea Vaya driver expressed the fear and uncertainty that now clouded the workforce, stating that the attacks had shaken them to the core.
Another driver criticized the absence of Transport MMC Kenny Kunene, accusing city leadership of failing to engage directly with them and make decisions about their safety without consultation.
Kunene Offers R100k Reward
In response to the escalating violence, Kunene pledged a personal reward of R100,000 to anyone providing information leading to the arrest of the perpetrators. He clarified that the reward was not from the City of Johannesburg or the Department of Transport but a personal commitment to seek justice for the slain drivers.
The situation remains tense as Rea Vaya services remain suspended until further notice, with passengers advised to seek alternative transport options. As the city grapples with the aftermath of these senseless killings, the call for peace, dialogue, and justice reverberates through the community.
