The Western Cape Mobility Department is gravely concerned about the ongoing violence linked to disputes between CATA and CODETA taxi associations operating on the Somerset West routes. Despite recent engagements with stakeholders, further incidents have occurred, including a fatal shooting in Lwandle on 4 September 2025.
On 28 August 2025, the Western Cape High Court granted an interim order against the affected taxi associations and their members. The order interdicts them from interfering with transport services, intimidating operators, and disregarding operating licence conditions on specified routes and at key public transport facilities, including the Somerset West Public Transport Interchange, Somerset West Mall, and Routes 611, 43, M18, and X19.
The Court directed the respondents to demonstrate by 9 October 2025 why the interim order should not be made final. In the interim, the order is immediately binding and enforceable.
A hearing was held with the taxi associations on 3 September 2025, which was postponed to 11 September 2025. In the meantime, the department has issued a Notice of Intent to close the affected routes under Section 91 of the National Land Transport Act, should violence persist.
Western Cape Mobility Minister, Isaac Sileku, today (5 September 2025) met directly with the leadership of CODETA and CATA to address tensions over the highly contested Somerset West routes. Several contentious issues were discussed, and the parties agreed on the urgent need to ensure peace and stability.
As a next step, a joint session between the two mother-bodies and the Mobility Department will be convened in the coming days to consolidate this commitment and work towards lasting solutions.
Minister Sileku said, “Violence and lawlessness have no place in our communities or our transport system. The safety of commuters and residents is our first priority, and we will use every legal and regulatory mechanism at our disposal to restore stability. We have made it clear to all parties that disputes must be resolved through lawful processes, not violence. We are acting decisively to ensure safety and to protect our resident’s right to safe, reliable transport.”
Whilst peace talks are underway, the Section 91 process will continue. The department remains committed to prioritising safety of residents in the Western Cape.
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