As reported by officials, five people have died during tense demonstrations over a taxi strike in Cape Town, South Africa.
One of the victims is a 40-year-old British citizen, whose family is receiving assistance from the UK Foreign Office.
Drivers reportedly complained of “heavy-handed tactics” by law officials, which prompted the week-long walkout.
Taxi drivers and owners said that their cars were being targeted and confiscated for infractions of a minor nature.
Drivers listed violations such as failing to buckle up and improperly using the emergency lane. Others, they alleged, just received penalties for similar behaviour.
Minibus taxi drivers complained that the government was seizing their vehicles because they weren’t safe for the road.
The City of Cape Town’s minibus taxis were impounded on Tuesday, and South Africa’s transport minister Sindisiwe Chikunga ordered their immediate release.
The legislation employed by the city, according to Ms. Chikunga, had been “executed and implemented incorrectly” and “it doesn’t exist” under current laws.
Since the strikes started on August 3rd, 120 individuals have been detained, according to the South African Ministry of Police, and looting, stone-throwing, and arson offences have also been reported.
The death of a police officer was also confirmed by Police Minister Bheki Cele.
Residents in the Masiphumelele township built barricades on Tuesday to stop other residents from leaving. These barriers were lit on fire in large numbers.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Mr. Cele urged collaboration between the Cape Town administration and taxi drivers. Children who couldn’t get to school were among those impacted by the walkout, he claimed.
He urged people to put aside their differences and work together to find a solution.
Following the strike’s designation as a significant security risk for visitors to South Africa, the UK has issued a travel advisory.