Commuters were left terrified after gunmen opened fire at Palm taxi rank in Delft, Cape Town, on Wednesday morning, 28 October 2026. The shooting left two adult men wounded and triggered renewed concerns about public safety amid escalating violence believed to be linked to disputes within the minibus taxi industry.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the two victims were transported to hospital in a private vehicle for medical treatment. Police opened two attempted murder cases and a case of discharging a firearm. No arrests had been made at the time of reporting, and investigations were continuing.
Videos circulating on social media showed commuters running for cover as gunshots rang out. The incident caused panic at the rank, where many people rely on taxis for their daily journeys to work, school and other destinations.
Delft Taxi Interchange Temporarily Closed
Following the violence, the City of Cape Town temporarily closed the Delft Public Transport Interchange to protect commuters and allow authorities to respond to the situation. The closure disrupted normal taxi operations, leaving passengers searching for alternative transport and raising concerns about delays for people trying to reach work and other essential commitments.
The impact extended to learners writing their matric examinations. The Western Cape Education Department activated security measures and advised examination centres to contact candidates who had not arrived. Learners facing transport or safety difficulties were advised to report to the nearest examination centre where necessary.
Taxi Route Disputes Under Scrutiny
The shooting occurred amid wider violence across parts of Cape Town, including Khayelitsha, Mfuleni and Gugulethu. Authorities have linked the broader wave of incidents to longstanding disputes over routes and operating rights involving the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA) and the Congress of Democratic Taxi Associations (CODETA). However, police had not publicly confirmed the motive for the Palm taxi rank shooting at the time of reporting.
Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis condemned the violence and offered the South African Police Service support from the City’s enforcement teams, surveillance technology and safety-camera footage. The City also called on taxi industry leaders to resolve their disagreements through lawful negotiations rather than violence.
The incident has once again highlighted the vulnerability of commuters who depend on minibus taxis every day. As investigations continue, residents and passengers are hoping for improved security, the restoration of normal transport services and accountability for those responsible.
Main image: Sowetan
