Pirate taxi operators may have been involved in the robbery and sexual assault of a female commuter in Goodwood and remain at large.
Parow police spokesperson Captain Kevin Williams confirmed the incident took place between 3pm and 4pm on Sunday March 28 in the Parow CBD.
“The woman was sexually assaulted and robbed when the taxi operator and guard went off route,” said Captain Williams.
“Afterwards the suspects dropped the victim at the Parow municipality and fled the scene. The amount of money that was stolen was not disclosed to us.”
Parow police are reporting an increase in taxi-related crimes.
Captain Williams says these suspects may be pirate taxi operators and urges the public to practice caution when taking public transport and to rather travel during peak hours.
“Never choose taxis that are only occupied by the driver and taxi guard and rather choose taxis that are loaded. It’s also very dangerous to enter an empty taxi early in the morning or late at night.”
Codeta Taxi Association member Besuthu Ndagane said he was unaware of this incident and did not wish to comment further on the issue.
When asked if there are plans to tackle the issue of pirate taxi operators and ensure that commuters are safe when taking public transport, Ntomboxolo Makoba-Somdaka, spokesperson for MEC of Transport and Public Works Bonginkosi Madikizela, said: “The MEC deeply regrets this criminal incident and hopes the South African Police Service investigates the matter and brings the perpetrators to book.”