EASTERN CAPE – Traffic and business activity have returned to normal in Dutywa, Willowvale and Ngcobo after a taxi drivers’ strike brought parts of the N2 and R408 to a standstill earlier this week.
The protests, linked to tensions between taxi operators and other transport stakeholders, halted the movement of goods and services on Wednesday, forcing several shops and banks to close and leaving commuters stranded.
During the height of the disruptions on Wednesday, Eastern Cape Transport and Safety spokesperson Unathi Binqose expressed strong concern about the actions unfolding in Dutywa and Ngcobo.
“We are extremely concerned about the unlawful closure of the N2 in Dutywa, where protesters hijacked a truck, used it to barricade both lanes, and then disappeared with the keys. This reckless act has crippled the movement of goods and essential services along one of the province’s critical corridors.”
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Binqose added, “Ngcobo is also experiencing its own protest, with taxi operators withdrawing services and bringing the town to a standstill. We urge communities to raise grievances through lawful channels, as these actions place lives at risk and undermine the very services people rely on every day.”
Friday, 28 November stability had been restored across all affected areas, Eastern Cape police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa confirmed.
“Police can confirm that everything is back to normal at Ngcobo. Taxis are operating and businesses are open with no intimidation. There is police visibility and the situation is monitored by law enforcement,” she said.
Mawisa added that a separate incident, involving trucks being used to block the N2 in Dutywa, occurred on Friday. Police and law-enforcement officers responded promptly.
“Two men, aged 35 and 52, were arrested. One faces a charge of common robbery, whilst the other is charged with malicious damage to property. Both are expected to appear in the Dutywa Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 1 December.”
High-visibility patrols remain in place as police monitor for any further disruptions.
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Earlier in the week, residents and local leaders voiced frustration over the shutdown, with many unable to travel for work, access essential services, or buy groceries during the taxi withdrawal. Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha condemned the road blockades and alleged truck hijackings, labelling them “criminal action, not industrial action.”
Police have urged residents to continue reporting suspicious activities as law enforcement maintains oversight in the region.
