The Western Cape High Court has granted the Western Cape Mobility Department an urgent interdict to implement measures in response to the ongoing mini-bus taxi-related violence in Mfuleni, Somerset West, Nomzamo and Lwandle.

A series of taxi shootings over the past week has resulted in at least six deaths, with several people shot and wounded.

The Western Cape Government announced earlier this week that it was taking urgent steps, including applying for a court order, to put an end to the violence.

Tensions over routes between minibus taxi associations operating in these areas escalated last Friday, when the associations walked out of crucial peace talks.

The interim interdict, which takes effect immediately, is aimed at protecting commuters, operators and members of the public from further harm.

The terms of the interdict are as follows:

• Members of the affected taxi associations (CATA, CODETA and affiliates) are prohibited from interfering with transport services at the Somerset West taxi rank, Somerset West Mall, and on four key routes: Route 611 (Khayelitsha – Somerset West), Route 43 (Lwandle – Khayelitsha), Route M18 (Mfuleni – Somerset West) and Route X19 (Nomzamo – Mfuleni);
• Members are prohibited from making threats, intimidating or interfering with other minibus taxi operators or their drivers;
• Minibus taxi associations are required to follow the rules of their existing operating licences; and
• Members are directed to immediately stop unlawful behaviour and to report back to the court within three days of the steps which have been taken.

The Western Cape Mobility MEC, Isaac Sileku, says the order will remain in force until 9 October 2025, when the court will decide whether to make it permanent.

“Violence and lawlessness cannot be allowed to endanger the lives of commuters, operators, and our residents. This court order gives us the legal authority to act decisively to protect our communities and restore stability in the affected areas. Every commuter has the right to travel without fear, and we will work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure full compliance with the order.”

Premier Alan Winde has this urgent interdict.

“While it was an act of last resort, it is an important step towards stabilising the current situation. But more critically, we urge these taxi associations to return to negotiations to meaningfully engage and find a lasting solution. They must always put their commuters’ interests first. This is a non-negotiable.”

Winde and Sileku have urged all mini-bus taxi operators to comply with the court order.