Seven suspects accused of running a large-scale extortion and racketeering network targeting long-distance bus operators have been denied bail in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court, with the matter now postponed to 20 July for further financial investigations.
The accused — Bonke Makalala, Simphiwe Mtshala, Mzuvukile Mbiyo, Siyanda Dyantyti, Gwendoline Mazele, Siphelele Kwaza and Simphiwe Gxumayo — face a total of 156 charges, including racketeering, extortion, attempted extortion, intimidation, money laundering, kidnapping, and offences under the Prevention of Organised Crime Act, as well as tax-related charges.
According to court evidence presented by the State, the case forms part of an extensive investigation that uncovered a coordinated criminal enterprise involving members linked to various taxi associations, including CATA, CODETA, UNCEDO and the Natal Spruit Taxi Association.
The State alleges the group systematically targeted bus operators such as Intercape, Greyhound/Aldo Coaches and others, demanding protection fees in exchange for safe passage on shared routes. Non-compliance was allegedly enforced through intimidation, threats and violence, with more than 150 incidents of attacks and harassment reported since 2021.
Prosecutors also told the court that financial records, witness statements, FIC and SARS data, and communication evidence form part of a strong prima facie case, and argue the accused pose a risk of witness intimidation and evasion of trial due to the severity of potential sentences.
Magistrate Reaz Khan ruled that the State had established a strong case and that there was a likelihood of witness intimidation if bail were granted. He also noted that the accused failed to sufficiently challenge the State’s allegations, with their affidavits deemed untested under cross-examination.
One of the accused, Dyantyti, was noted to have prior convictions and several pending serious criminal matters, including allegations involving firearms, attempted murder, and violent offences.
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