Robbers target early morning commuters at Cape Town taxi rank
Street vendors report business losses as fearful customers avoid the area.
Authorities have increased patrols but urged public vigilance and group travel.
Catching a taxi from Cape Town's CBD before sunrise has become increasingly dangerous for night-shift workers. Robberies have been reported around the station deck stairs leading to the taxi rank, with women travelling at around 04:00 being the most affected.
Many have resorted to waiting for other night-shift workers, particularly men, to accompany them to the taxis for safety.
'We need more security; police and law enforcement must be visible early around the area so that we can be safe,' said commuter Amzolele Sampu.
Sampu said the robbers blend in among the homeless, making fires near the stairs.
'They appear homeless, but they are not. They target us,' she said.
READ | Western Cape taxi industry leaders admit links to extortionists and gangs
Another taxi commuter, Andile Kumeke, said he is scared to walk alone with the women after his shift as a petrol attendant ends.
'These boys have big knives,' he said. 'I have kids at home, and I do not want something to happen to me. We need a vehicle to flash blue lights here to scare them off.'
Street vendors near the rank say crime has also hurt their businesses as commuters who once stopped for coffee or snacks now hurry past.
'I used to sell out within three hours,' said vendor Eric, who starts work at 03:30. 'Now, it's difficult.'
Velani Ludidi/News24
Both police and the City's Law Enforcement Department confirmed they are aware of the robberies.
Law enforcement spokesperson Wayne Dyason said that, in partnership with the Cape Town Metro Police Department, traffic service, and SA Police Service, they maintain a visible policing presence in the area.
'This includes targeted patrols informed by Crime Intelligence and regular enforcement operations based on crime statistics and trend analysis. While we remain committed to improving safety, being in every location at every moment is impossible.'
Police spokesperson, Sergeant Wesley Twigg, said police have engaged with other stakeholders to address the concerns.
'We appeal to the public to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings at all times, and walk in groups if possible.'
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