Taxi patrol's deadly ambush!

MAN killed and nine hospitalised in suspected taxi association hit.

Limpopo cops have launched an intensive investigation after a violent attack on a private transport vehicle left one passenger dead and nine others critically injured on Tuesday night, 15 April.

The incident, which occurred near Tzaneen, has been strongly condemned by provincial police commissioner Lieutenant-General Thembi Hadebe, who has ordered immediate action to apprehend the suspects.

According to Hadebe, a 57-year-old man was driving a white Nissan NP 200 bakkie carrying 11 passengers from a hiking spot to Nkowankowa location when the attack occurred.

The driver reportedly noticed two men standing beside a white Toyota Etios branded as "Taxi Patrol" after passing the last stop sign outside of town.

The suspects entered their vehicle and pursued the bakkie, attempting to force it to stop.

The driver continued until the bakkie experienced a sudden mechanical failure near a petrol station, causing him to lose control.

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The vehicle subsequently struck roadside pillars, ejecting several passengers before coming to a halt in the middle of the road. The suspects' vehicle immediately fled the scene, returning towards Tzaneen town.

"This type of violence targeting private transport operators and innocent passengers is absolutely unacceptable."

"I've directed our officers to utilise all available resources to track down these suspects and ensure they face the full might of the law," said Hadebe.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel who responded to the scene pronounced a 55-year-old male passenger dead upon arrival.

Nine other passengers sustained serious injuries and were transported to a local hospital in critical condition.

Authorities have opened cases of culpable homicide and attempted murder as the investigation continues.

Police believe the attack may be linked to ongoing tensions between formal taxi associations and private transport providers in the region.

Limpopo police spokesman Colonel Malesela Ledwaba issued a stern warning to those involved in transport-related violence.

"We have intelligence suggesting this attack is part of a pattern of intimidation against private transport operators. Such criminal behaviour will not be tolerated in our province.

"We are working closely with the taxi industry leadership to bring an end to these violent incidents and ensure commuter safety," said Malesela.

Members of the public with information about the incident or the suspects are urged to contact CrimeStop on 08600 10111.