MEYERTON, South Africa — A tense shootout between members of two private security firms at a bustling taxi rank in Meyerton has prompted a police investigation into attempted murder and illegal firearm possession. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday morning, sent shockwaves through the community and has left taxi drivers fearing for their safety.

According to police reports, the gun battle erupted between security companies allegedly hired by rival taxi associations vying for control of lucrative routes. Col. Dimakatso Nevhulwi, a police spokesperson, confirmed that one individual sustained a gunshot wound and was promptly transported to a local hospital. "While combing the scene at the rank, police recovered 10 AK-47 rifles and nine 9mm pistols," Nevhulwi stated, emphasizing that the ownership of the firearms and the motive behind the shooting remain under investigation.

Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as the two security teams exchanged fire in the busy taxi rank, sending commuters scrambling for cover. The rank was immediately cordoned off, disrupting transportation services and leaving many stranded. Investigators spent hours collecting spent bullet casings and interviewing witnesses to piece together the sequence of events.

The incident has ignited concerns about the increasing involvement of private security firms in taxi operations and the potential for further violence. Local taxi drivers have expressed feeling vulnerable and exposed, describing the ongoing tensions between rival groups as a "ticking time bomb."

Authorities are now working to determine the identities of those who deployed the armed security teams and whether these companies were operating within legal parameters. The investigation is ongoing, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in bringing the perpetrators to justice.