The high-profile taxi boss linked to extortion, fraud, intimidation, murder, attempted murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm in and around Cape Town has been identified as businessman Bonke Makalala.
Also read: Taxi boss wanted for string of crimes in Cape Town arrested in Pretoria
TimesLIVE reports that Makalala was hailed as a hero earlier this year when he fixed a bridge in Tsomo, where he is reportedly from. The publication states that it took him only six days and about R55 000 to hire equipment, pay for labour, and buy the needed materials.
A total of 25 people were hired to do the job.
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Makalala also owns luxury buses in addition to taxi operations. As per his website, he started Makalala Trans in 2013 while he was a taxi driver. The company expanded over the years, and he developed other services, including cleaning services, construction, supply and delivery and logistics.
According to police spokesperson FC van Wyk, Makalala is the prime suspect in a Nyanga murder and double attempted murder case. He was arrested on Sunday in East Silver Lakes, Pretoria, where he was reportedly hiding.
The police also issued warrants of arrest for him in connection with a case of possession of an unlicensed firearm and for impersonating a police official in Ocean View.
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Nyanga police investigating murder of British tourist amid taxi strike
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