Two men believed to be linked to a taxi association in Ladysmith, western KwaZulu-Natal, have been shot dead.

Last month, taxi operators blockaded the roads leading into the Ladysmith central business district, including the taxi rank for transport to Durban.

It was believed that the Sizwe and Klip River Taxi associations were fighting over who should operate from the rank.

Police spokesperson Thembeka Mbhele says they are investigating the motive for the attack.

“Two counts of murder have been opened at Ladysmith police station for investigation . Two people aged 40 and 58 were fatally shot whilst driving in a certain road I’m Ladysmith by unknown suspects. They both sustained multiple gunshot wounds to the body and were declared dead at the scene.” Mbhele said.