SANTACO in grief following Moya’s assassination

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The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) have expressed grief following the tragic killing of the Gauteng National Taxi Alliance (GNTA) Chairperson, Thamsanqa Moya.

Moya was shot and killed in a suspected hit along the Soweto Highway on Tuesday morning.

Gauteng Police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, confirmed the shooting and described it as a planned attack.

“The 58-year-old was driving a grey Toyota Hilux when two cars, a Toyota minibus taxi and a grey Toyota Yaris, forced him to stop.

“They stopped the victim and fired several shots at him. He was certified dead at the scene. The circumstances suggest this was a targeted hit. Investigations are underway,” he said.

Police officers swiftly responded and cordoned off the scene while forensic investigators combed the area for evidence. A case of murder has been opened.

The motive behind the attack remains unclear at this stage, but the incident has once again raised alarm over the wave of taxi-related violence plaguing the industry.

Midday Mali, SANTACO Gauteng chairperson described Moya as not only a leader in the taxi industry but also a tireless champion for unity and stability.

“He consistently advocated for a sustainable and inclusive future for our sector. His death robs the industry of a unifier, a visionary, and a man who believed in collective progress over division.

“We appreciate the swift commitment by the acting minister of police, Prof. Firoz Cachalia who has assured the industry and the nation that this heinous crime will be prioritised and thoroughly investigated,” he expressed.

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Mali called on law enforcement to ensure that the perpetrators are swiftly found and brought to justice.

He added that this will send a strong message that the taxi industry cannot be a playground for criminal activity will go a long way in protecting those who serve in it and restoring confidence in our communities.

“I have lost a counterpart, a comrade, and a fellow leader with whom we were spearheading the taxi industry toward a more sustainable and dignified future. His absence leaves a void,” Mali concluded.

SANTACO leadership to visit Moyo’s family

SANTACO president, Motlhabane Abnar Tsebe, also expressed his deep concern at the loss of yet another important leader in the industry.

“The passing of Mr. Moya is not just a loss to Gauteng, but to the entire taxi industry. He was one of the figures to whom we looked for unity, for prosperity, and for guiding our sector into a better future. To lose him in such a violent manner is unacceptable and deeply painful.”

Tsebe said the leadership of SANTACO will soon visit chairman Moya’s family to offer our condolences.