The Western Cape High Court has issued an interim interdict against taxi organisations CATA and CODETA following renewed violence, with restrictions aimed at protecting commuters and keeping lawful transport operations running, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The Western Cape Mobility Department approached the court after recent incidents of taxi violence. The order names the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA), the Congress of Democratic Taxi Associations (CODETA), their cited office bearers, affiliated associations and members.
Although provisional, the interdict takes immediate effect. It prohibits violence, intimidation, road blockades, unlawful route takeovers, damage to property and interference with public or private transport. It also restricts firearms and dangerous weapons at transport facilities and in minibus taxis operating on the affected routes.
The respondents must return to court on 20 November 2026 at 10:00 to show why the order should not be made final.
Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku said the department had a responsibility to protect people who depend on public transport, adding that it had ‘no choice but to approach the court’ after other efforts failed to stop the violence.
He urged the organisations to ‘take responsibility, end the violence‘ and ‘resolve their disputes peacefully’ for the benefit of commuters and lawful operators.
CATA association faces six-month suspension
In a separate action, the Provincial Taxi Registrar suspended the registration of the CATA Langa Inter-township Taxi Association for six months following an inquiry into unlawful operations in Epping.
The inquiry found that the association knowingly permitted unlawful route invasions and failed to take reasonable steps to control its members. Drivers were also found to have participated in violent activities or activities that induced violence.
During the suspension, members cannot apply for new, renewed, amended or transferred operating licences, including temporary licences.
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Also read:
Western Cape and City of Cape Town ramp up efforts to tackle taxi violence
Picture: Pinelands CID
