Woman shot in her private area following a violent dispute with a taxi owner

A 34-year-old woman and a 24-year-old pedestrian sustained serious injuries in a drive-by shooting at a housing complex in Cornubia, KwaZulu-Natal, on Tuesday afternoon.

The incident occurred around 17:02 when residents contacted Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) for urgent medical assistance. Upon arrival, RUSA Officers and Paramedics found the two women lying on the road, bleeding profusely from gunshot wounds.

The 34-year-old woman, a resident of the complex, had been shot multiple times—in her genital area, twice in her right leg, and through her right palm. The 24-year-old pedestrian was hit in both legs by stray bullets.

According to preliminary information, the older woman was embroiled in a conflict with a local taxi owner, who had allegedly been using intimidation tactics to force her out of the area. Earlier that day, she reportedly approached the owner’s white Toyota Hiace and vandalized it with a panga. The vehicle was unoccupied at the time.

Shortly after the vandalism, an unknown vehicle arrived, and its occupants opened fire, targeting the woman. The second victim was an unintended casualty, struck by stray bullets during the shooting.

Both victims were stabilized at the scene and transported to a hospital in serious but stable condition. The incident underscores the violence that can erupt from disputes, particularly in areas with tense relations involving taxi operators.

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