7-Day Shutdown of Maponya Mall After E-Hailing Attack
Tensions in Soweto have reached a critical point. Following a fatal attack on an e-hailing driver at Maponya Mall, residents of Pimville are demanding action—and quick. Their call: a week-long shutdown of the mall and the removal of its current security provider.
Attack Sparks Outrage and Protest
On Wednesday night, e-hailing driver Siyanda Mthokozisi Mvelase, 27, was fatally shot and both he and his vehicle were set ablaze at the entrance of Maponya Mall. Two other individuals—a fellow driver and a passerby—were also injured and rushed to hospital.
In response, outraged community members blocked access to the mall, hurling rocks and forcing a halt to both taxi and e-hailing services.
Community Demands: Closure & Accountability
1. Seven-Day Mall Shutdown
Community leader Keabetsoe Malebo expressed the community’s grief and frustration: “We as black people mourn for no less than seven days when one of us has died… Maponya Mall must shut down for seven days.
2. Security Company Removal
Residents are demanding the removal of the mall’s security provider, condemning it for failing to prevent the violence. They’ve pledged to maintain protest actions until these demands are met.
They argue the mall must involve local stakeholders in its safety strategies: “The mall management must also keep us safe… they prevent other developments from happening.
Officials Respond
- Gauteng government officials have condemned the attack and opened a case of murder, attempted murder, and arson. Calls have been made for swift law enforcement action.
- Public transport spokesperson Lesiba Mpya noted that a crisis committee—including e-hailers, taxi operators, and authorities—meets regularly to manage these disputes: “We stand against this violence and bullying… competition means you need to innovate, not intimidate.”SowetanLIVE
- SANTACO (Taxi Council) called for the accelerated implementation of revised transport regulations to address unregulated e-hailer operations, which they argue have contributed to safety risks and overcrowding.IOL
Why This Matters
- Public Safety & Trust: Attacks at a central community hub like Maponya Mall undermine trust in public spaces and threaten the safety of workers and visitors.
- Conflict in Transport: The violence highlights long-standing tensions between traditional taxi operators and newer e-hailing services—a clash that has repeated consequences.
- Community Empowerment: Residents are demanding more than lip service—they want tangible accountability from mall management and government agencies.
7-Day Shutdown of Maponya Mall After E-Hailing Attack
As Soweto reels from yet another tragic loss, the call for action rings louder than ever. A temporary shutdown of Maponya Mall and a change in its security team could be the first steps toward meaningful changes in public safety and community engagement. One thing is clear: Soweto will not be silenced until justice is done.
