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Cape Town commuters face heightened risk due to escalating taxi violence, prompting calls for the police to shift from reactive to proactive measures. Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Police chairperson Ian Cameron emphasized the need for an intelligence-led strategy to tackle the ongoing conflict and shield vulnerable communities.

After a series of shootings, Cameron questioned whether the gathered information reached the right authorities and translated into effective action. While acknowledging the capable leadership within the police force, he expressed concerns over the proper collection and utilization of intelligence on the ground. Cameron stressed that intelligence must be accurately verified and relayed to those responsible for executing operations, including raids and arrests.

He also proposed leveraging technology to bolster police intelligence capabilities without necessitating a significant personnel increase. Cameron highlighted the Crime Intelligence Unit's crucial role in gathering and analyzing information to support investigations, deter further violence, and facilitate successful prosecutions.

He urged the Provincial Commissioner to swiftly implement intelligence-led strategies to quell the unrest. Additionally, Cameron appealed to taxi industry stakeholders to refrain from violence, warning that ongoing conflicts endanger public safety, livelihoods, and the city's economic stability. The violence has already taken a toll, with two taxi owners fatally shot in Epping in October.

Beyond the immediate victims, the conflict disrupts taxi services, impacting thousands of commuters who rely on the industry for work and essential services. Cameron stressed that a blend of proactive, intelligence-led policing and accountability is essential to curb the violence, protect innocent lives, and restore stability for commuters and communities across Cape Town.