Bus Mafia Bust: Seven Arrested Over Bus Industry Extortion Scheme

Seven suspects linked to alleged “bus mafia” activities have appeared before the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court following a coordinated national crackdown.

The group, aged between 35 and 62, faces 125 charges, including extortion, intimidation and money laundering.

Those arrested are Bonke Makalala, Simphiwe Matshala, Mzuvukile Mbiyo, Siyanda Dyanti, Gwendoline Mazele, Siphelele Kwaza and Simphiwe Gxumayo.

‘Bus Mafia’ Arrests Follow Multi-Province Operation

The suspects were arrested over the weekend in multiple locations, including Cape Town, Matatiele and Nelspruit.

Police said the arrests followed a four-year investigation led by the Western Cape Taxi Violence Task Team.

Authorities allege the group is linked to taxi industry structures and acted together to extort long-distance bus operators.

State Alleges Extortion, Threats and Violence

According to the State, between 2021 and 2023, the accused demanded large sums of money from bus companies in exchange for so-called “protection”.

The alleged scheme involved threats, intimidation and disruption of operations. In some instances, individuals were reportedly unlawfully detained.

Intercape CEO Johann Ferreira said the arrests have exposed the scale of organised crime affecting the industry.

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“It can no longer be ignored or swept under the carpet. Intercape calls upon President Ramaphosa, the Minister of Police, the Minister of Transport, Parliament, the Competition Commission and other relevant State organs to seize this moment and discharge their constitutional duties.”

Police investigations are ongoing.