The Western Cape Mobility Department, together with the City of Cape Town and law enforcement agencies, is taking action to restore safety and stability following violent conflict affecting the Khayelitsha–Somerset West transport route. The South African Police Service (SAPS) is attending to the incidents and investigations are underway.
The Department and the City of Cape Town met with the Western Cape SANTACO leadership, affected regions and primary associations on 24 August 2026 to discuss the current challenges and to agree on the way forward. The parties have agreed to participate in a formal mediation process, which will start on Monday 31 August 2026, to help resolve the conflict and prevent further violence. The Department has maintained that government is enjoined to ensure a safe and dignified environment for public transport users and will act decisively to save lives and to protect livelihoods. This includes pursuing a range of lawful interventions and avenues for engagement and resolution.
The Department’s primary concern is the safety of commuters, public transport operators and drivers who use and operate on these routes. We are equally concerned about other road users, residents and people entering the affected areas. No person should have to fear for their safety when travelling to work, school or home, or while providing an essential public transport service.
Traffic officers are increasing their visibility on key routes and hotspot areas. Vehicles found operating outside their licence conditions are being impounded. Compliance with operating licence conditions is mandatory and applies equally to all public transport operators.
“The violence and intimidation we have seen on some public transport routes are deeply concerning and have no place in our communities. Every commuter has the right to travel safely, and every operator and driver has the right to work without fear. We are working closely with law enforcement agencies, municipalities and industry stakeholders to support efforts to restore stability, strengthen enforcement, and ensure that public transport services can continue to operate safely and reliably,” said Muneera Allie, Western Cape Mobility Department’s Head of Communication.
The Department remains committed to working with law enforcement, the City, the taxi industry and other stakeholders to protect commuters, support legitimate public transport operators and restore peace and stability to the affected routes. Violence and intimidation cannot be allowed to compromise the safety of commuters.
