Cape Town, South Africa – Seven individuals accused of orchestrating an organised crime operation targeting long-distance bus operators have appeared before the Cape Town Magistrates Court, facing a string of serious charges including extortion, intimidation, kidnapping and money laundering.
According to National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Western Cape spokesperson, Eric Ntabazalila, the accused — Bonke Makalala, Simphiwe Matshala, Mzuvukile Mbiyo, Siyanda Dyanti, Gwendoline Mazele, Siphelele Kwaza and Simphiwe Gxumayo — were arrested following an extensive investigation by the Western Cape Taxi Violence Task Team.
Ntabazalila said the investigation uncovered allegations that the group, believed to be linked to various taxi associations, operated as a coordinated criminal enterprise targeting long-distance bus companies across multiple provinces.
“It is alleged that between 2021 and 2023, the accused demanded large sums of money from bus operators in exchange for so-called ‘protection’ and the ability to operate without disruption,” said Ntabazalila.
“These demands were allegedly enforced through intimidation, threats of violence, operational disruptions, and in some cases, the unlawful detention of individuals.”
The State further alleges that several bus operators made payments under duress, with financial records and witness statements supporting the claims. These funds were reportedly shared among members of the group as part of an organised scheme.
The accused now face multiple charges, including racketeering under the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (POCA), extortion, attempted extortion, intimidation, kidnapping, interference with essential infrastructure, and money laundering. Additional charges under the Tax Administration Act may also be added as investigations continue.
“The accused are believed to have acted with a common purpose to unlawfully extract financial benefit through sustained criminal conduct, including acts of violence and attacks on long-distance buses,” Ntabazalila added.
The State has indicated it will oppose bail due to the seriousness of the charges.
The matter has been postponed to 07 April 2026 for the verification of bail information and to confirm the residential addresses of three of the accused in the Eastern Cape.
The NPA has welcomed the arrests, reaffirming its commitment to tackling taxi-related violence and ensuring the safety of public transport operators and commuters.
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