Komani, Eastern Cape – The taxi industry in Komani is once again shrouded in grief and fear after the brutal assassination of Velile Makatesi, the 54-year-old boss of the Queenstown Uncedo Service Taxi Association (Qusta). Makatesi, a prominent figure in the industry, was shot multiple times on Monday, 15 July, at the Native Lifestyle Pub and Grill Restaurant, succumbing to his injuries in an East London hospital three days later.
The brazen attack, which also left Makatesi's associate injured, has raised concerns about the escalating violence within the taxi industry. The incident follows a string of similar killings in the area, highlighting a deep-seated conflict that has claimed the lives of several taxi leaders in recent years.
Police spokesperson Namhla Mdleleni confirmed that Komani police are investigating a case of murder and attempted murder. "It's alleged that the two men were at a business venue when two unidentified men entered under the pretense of purchasing alcohol. As they approached the counter, they opened fire and then fled. Both victims were rushed to the nearest hospital for treatment, where one of them later died due to his injuries on Wednesday,” Mdleleni said.
The circumstances surrounding the incident remain shrouded in mystery, with no arrests made so far. The police are appealing to the public for any information that could lead to the apprehension of the perpetrators.
Makatesi's death marks the third killing of a Uncedo leader in Komani since 2021. In 2021, Qusta president Sandi Mgobo was fatally shot while opening a gate at his home in Ezibeleni. Shortly after, his secretary, Thamsanqa "Doc" Ngcongca, was also killed outside a house in Mlungisi.
Adding to the sense of unease, another taxi association member was gunned down near Ezibeleni in Komani on Saturday, 20 July. This murder is also under investigation, further highlighting the volatile situation within the taxi industry.
Sources close to Makatesi suggest that his life was constantly at risk due to leadership disputes within the association, with some members wanting him to resign. His sister, Khunjulwa Makatesi, revealed that her brother was constantly accompanied by bodyguards due to threats against his life.
"He was shot in the head, upper abdomen, and thigh; it was essentially an assassination. He was airlifted from Frontier Hospital to a hospital in East London. Initially, he was to be transported by ambulance, but a last-minute medical assessment necessitated an airlift," she explained.
Khunjulwa added that ever since her brother assumed the presidency, his life had been in constant danger. "Fear was always present. Whenever violence escalated, their lives were at risk. I'm unaware of the specifics of the conflict, but it undoubtedly led to my brother’s death," she said.
The owner of Native Lifestyle, Thozamisa Nyasty BenMazwi, expressed shock over the incident. "We are deeply shocked by this unexpected incident and extend our condolences to the Makatesi family, who were patrons of our restaurant," he said, adding that security measures at the venue have since been intensified.
The taxi industry in Komani, once a vital lifeline for the community, is now plagued by violence and fear. The recent killings have left many questioning the safety of those involved in the industry and the effectiveness of efforts to curb the violence.
The community is left grappling with the aftermath of this tragedy, seeking answers and demanding justice for the victim. The police investigation is ongoing, and the community hopes that the perpetrators will be brought to justice. However, the deep-seated conflicts within the taxi industry remain a cause for concern, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of the violence and ensure the safety of all involved.
