The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) in Free State is deeply saddened, shocked, and outraged by the brutal killing of Ms Matshediso Nteo (58), the Chairperson of the Qwaqwa United Taxi Association in the Thabo Mofutsanyane Region, Free State.

It is reported that Ms Nteo was ambushed and shot dead by unknown assailants in Thabanatshoana Village, QwaQwa, on 24 January 2025. This senseless and cowardly act of violence has robbed the taxi industry and the nation of a committed, principled, and courageous leader.

Ms Nteo dedicated many years of her life to serving the taxi industry. Her leadership journey included roles as Deputy Secretary, Secretary, Deputy Chairperson, and ultimately Chairperson, positions she held during various terms including 2017, 2021, and 2025. She was widely respected for her discipline, consistency, and unwavering commitment to unity and transformation within the industry.

Speaking on behalf of the province, SANTACO Free State Chairperson, Mr Emmanuel Mthimkhulu, expressed deep sorrow and called for urgent action: “We are devastated by the loss of Comrade Matshediso Nteo, a fearless and dedicated leader who served the taxi industry with integrity and humility. This is a painful loss not only for Qwaqwa and the Free State, but for the entire SANTACO family nationally. We are extremely shocked of the news. We strongly condemn this heinous act and urgently call on the South African Police Service to prioritise this case. The perpetrators must be found and brought to justice without delay.”

SANTACO President Mr. Motlhabane Abnar Tsebe echoed the Provincial Chairperson’s sentiments, highlighting that when the violence is taking women thereby leaving families and communities without mothers poorer. “The killing of Ms Matshediso Nteo is deeply disturbing and reflects the broader crisis of violent crime in our country. It is especially alarming that women who step forward to lead are being targeted and killed. This cannot be accepted as the norm. We appeal to law enforcement to act decisively and urgently. Protecting women and leaders in our society is a national responsibility that cannot be ignored.”

SANTACO extends its deepest condolences to the Nteo family, the Qwaqwa United Taxi Association, colleagues, and the broader taxi fraternity. The organisation stands in solidarity with them during this painful time and reaffirms its commitment to peace, justice, and the protection of all its members.

Media Inquiries:
Email: info@santacofs.co.za
Provincial Secretary: Mr. Phumuli 084 877 1341