The City of Cape Town has warned the minibus taxi industry to refrain from any acts of violence as it is reportedly planning a stay away in the coming days.

It’s understood talks between the National Taxi Council (Santaco) and the City and Western Cape Government broke down last week. A stumbling block appears to be the ongoing impounding of taxis.

Chaos erupted in the CBD on Tuesday afternoon and into peak hour. Taxis blocked roads in the Station Deck area after an earlier operation by City law enforcement which saw several vehicles impounded. A traffic officer was also assaulted. Police had to use stun grenades.

The City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility, Councillor Rob Quintas says they will hold Santaco accountable for any losses and damages and they are prepared to interdict the planned action to protect human lives as well as public and private property.