CATA meets with authorities as taxi violence and R13m extortion claims surface

The Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA) has confirmed it has engaged with the Western Cape Provincial Transport Department and the South African Police Service (SAPS) following a surge in targeted killings within its ranks.

This meeting comes in the wake of a mass demonstration last week, where hundreds of taxi owners and drivers marched to the Nyanga Police Station.

During the protest, members handed over a memorandum demanding that authorities prioritise investigations into a series of taxi-related murders that have plagued the industry in recent months.

ALSO READ:

Nyanga taxi conflict: WC Mobility MEC calls for police intervention

CATA alleges one of its own members behind attacks on taxi drivers

The ongoing violence is widely believed to be fueled by disputes over lucrative taxi routes and systemic allegations of extortion.

While the association seeks external protection, internal tensions have also surfaced.

A member of CATA’s Nyanga/Seawater branch has been accused by fellow members of orchestrating the recent killings of several CATA leaders, drivers, and women.

Furthermore, the individual is alleged to have extorted approximately R13 million from association members since 2020. The accused has since denied all allegations.

CATA had initially issued a seven-day ultimatum for a formal response to their grievances. However, CATA Secretary Nkululeko Sityebi noted that authorities acted swiftly following the march.

"They say they have read our memorandum, and we are going to have a meeting on the 19th of March. They did not wait for seven days; they arranged a meeting immediately after our march last week," said Sityebi.

Provincial Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku emphasised the importance of safety within the sector, stating that taxi ranks must never become environments where innocent lives are put at risk.