A TAXI boss and his bodyguard were gunned down in a hail of bullets in Marlboro, Joburg, on Thursday, 30 October.
The victims have been identified as ARMSTA chairman Molefe Victor Moekeletsi and his bodyguard.
Police believe the deadly attack is linked to ongoing taxi violence in the area.
According to acting Gauteng police commissioner Major-General Fred Kekana, cops have launched a manhunt following the shooting which left two people dead and five others wounded.
"It's reported that two vehicles, an Audi and a Mahindra bakkie were driving together along 8th Street when they were attacked by unknown suspects driving a white BMW X5/X6," said Kekana.
"The driver of the Audi and one passenger from the Mahindra bakkie were declared dead on the scene. Three more occupants from the bakkie sustained gunshot wounds and were taken to hospital. Two civilians were also injured when their vehicle crashed with the Audi after the driver lost control."
Kekana confirmed that the suspects' getaway vehicle, a white BMW X5/X6, was found abandoned a few kilometres from the scene with blood inside.
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"The blood found on the driver's seat suggests one of the attackers, possibly the driver, might have been wounded," said Kekana.
"We are appealing to all hospitals, clinics and private doctors to immediately report anyone who arrives with a bullet wound to the police, as they might be one of the suspects."
He said the motive is suspected to be taxi violence-related, as one of the deceased was a senior member of a local taxi association.
"Since January this year, Gauteng has recorded 39 taxi-related incidents," Kekana said.
"We have arrested 65 suspects linked to murder, attempted murder and illegal possession of firearms."
Kekana called on taxi associations to end violent rivalries and resolve disputes through dialogue.
"We appeal to all taxi organisations and associations to stop these attacks and assassinations," he said.
"There are leadership structures and the Department of Roads and Transport that can help mediate disputes. Killing each other is not the solution - families are left without breadwinners, and the very industry you depend on suffers."
The provincial police boss also noted that law enforcement has had a "hectic week" dealing with multiple violent incidents, including the Westbury mass shooting and a truck hijacking in Sunderland Ridge.
"Our teams are working tirelessly to bring all criminals to book," added Kekana.
"We urge communities to assist by sharing information anonymously via 08600 10111 or SMS 32211."
