Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association Confronts Authorities Over Targeted Killings and Alleged R13 Million Extortion Scheme

CATA meets SAPS and WC Mobility MEC after a surge in taxi murders and allegations of a R13 million extortion scheme involving internal leaders.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 16, 2026, 8:55 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from EyeWitness News

Urgent Meetings Following Nyanga Protest

Following a massive demonstration last week where hundreds of taxi owners marched to the Nyanga Police Station, the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA) confirmed on Monday, March 16, 2026, that formal negotiations with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and provincial authorities have been fast-tracked. The association's memorandum, which demanded priority investigations into a recent string of murders, prompted an immediate response, with a follow-up high-stakes meeting now scheduled for March 19.

R13 Million Extortion and Internal Betrayal

While external route disputes are a known factor in the Cape Town "taxi wars," CATA has revealed a deeply troubling internal rift. A specific member of the association’s Nyanga/Seawater branch is being accused of operating a systematic extortion racket, allegedly siphoning approximately R13 million from members over the last six years. More disturbingly, this same individual is alleged by fellow members to be the mastermind behind the recent targeted killings of CATA leaders, drivers, and even women associated with the industry. The accused individual has denied all charges.

Safety Concerns at Ranks

The violence has created an atmosphere of fear at local transport hubs. Provincial Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku addressed the situation, stating that taxi ranks must not be allowed to deteriorate into war zones where innocent lives are jeopardized. CATA has previously called for the installation of surveillance cameras at the Nyanga taxi rank to deter gunmen and assist in identifying perpetrators who currently operate with a sense of impunity.