Cab Drivers United/AFSCME issued the following statement following the violent murder of veteran cab driver Kamil Shamji.

“We are heartbroken over the loss of Kamil Shamji, and offer our deepest condolences to Mr. Shamji’s friends and family.

"Kamil Shamji’s murder last night reminds us all of the almost constant danger cab drivers put themselves in everyday when they go to work. Serving every corner of Chicago, their visibility allows them to serve residents and visitors, but at the same time, it makes for easy targets.

“Following the brutal murders of Chinedu Madu and Seneca Richardson in January and February 2015, Cab Drivers United/AFSCME Local 2500 held safety trainings for Chicago cab drivers to help educate themselves on safety procedures, as well as their rights should they find themselves the victim of violent crime.

“Unfortunately, we once again call on the City of Chicago to address the violence against cab drivers immediately.

“A simple preventative measure such as a silent alarm linked to GPS, that would dispatch the nearest CPD squad car, would give Chicago’s cab drivers the backup they need should they be placed in a dangerous situation with a potentially violent passenger.

“The City needs to act to alleviate the serious safety issues that plague the men and women who keep Chicago moving, transporting millions of residents and visitors safely and professionally.”