Tensions in the mini-bus taxi industry reared its head today, after a video of a traffic officer placing a taxi driver in a chokehold spread like wildfire on social media.

The MMC for Safety and Security JP Smith says traffic officers had pulled over the driver for driving on the shoulder of the N2 incoming near Langa this morning just before 07:00, but he resisted arrest.

Smith claims the chokehold was needed to prevent any injury.

“We have since learnt that he has an outstanding warrant of just under R3 000. The driver’s actions put his passengers and other road users at risk, but this was aggravated by the fact that he resisted arrest after Traffic officers stopped his vehicle, placing himself and the officers in danger. Officers were therefore forced to subdue him, in accordance with the provisions of the Criminal Procedure Act, which stipulates that an arresting officer may use sufficient force as is necessary to arrest an offender. The chokehold in this case prevented any injury, which could happen if the accused is not restrained or resorts to violence if they decide to fight with officers while resisting arrest.”

Misinformation about the incident started circulating that the driver had died, resulting in a large group of protestors gathering at the station deck this afternoon, leading to the closure of several roads.

The roads have since been reopened, but a large police presence is expected to remain at the station deck.

Two law enforcement officers were also allegedly held hostage by protestors, but were freed by colleagues.

“Unfortunately, due to misinformation spread on social media, claims soon started circulating that the driver had died, when he was in fact in custody and being processed at the Athlone police station. This misinformation has now also resulted in unnecessary tensions in the CBD, seemingly involving some within the minibus industry, with an illegal gathering, the closure of roads and holding two of our Law Enforcement officers hostage. Their colleagues have since freed them. These actions are illegal and will inevitably lead to an escalation of conflict and I call on those involved to cease and desist and allow the law to take its course.”

The driver of the taxi later posted a video to show that he is, in fact, alive:

📺 WATCH 📺

Driver is alive and speaks in video footage below: https://t.co/ynvaNEFHaN pic.twitter.com/YNwovnJBBj

— SANTACO (@SA_Taxis) March 4, 2025