The Western Cape Government has announced the suspension of multiple minibus taxi routes serving Mfuleni, Khayelitsha, Nomzamo, Lwandle, and Somerset West, following a wave of deadly taxi violence that has left commuters stranded and several people dead in recent weeks.
Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku confirmed on Friday that the suspension will take effect from Wednesday, 17 September 2025, and remain in force for 30 days.
The decision was made under Section 91 of the National Land Transport Act, which permits the government to take extraordinary measures in the interest of public safety.
“This was not an easy decision, but it is necessary to protect the lives of innocent commuters and restore order,” Sileku said.
Suspended Taxi Routes
The following taxi routes will be closed for the duration of the ban:
- Route M18: Mfuleni – Somerset West
- Route 43: Lwandle – Khayelitsha via Somerset West
- Route 611: Khayelitsha – Somerset West
- Route X19: Nomzamo – Mfuleni
- Route AA20: Khayelitsha – Somerset West via Vergelegen
- Route R96: Khayelitsha – Somerset West via Somerset Mall
- Route AA21: Khayelitsha – Sitari Village Mall (drop-off only)
- Route R97: Khayelitsha – Somerset West (drop-off only)
- Route YEX63: Mfuleni – Somerset West (drop-off only)
- Route YEX64: Mfuleni – Somerset West (drop-off only)
Additionally, designated lanes at taxi ranks in Khayelitsha, Makhaza, Mfuleni, Somerset West, Nomzamo and Lwandle will also be closed while the ban is in effect.
Violence and Disruption Prompt Drastic Measures
The crackdown follows a series of violent incidents between rival taxi associations – notably CATA and CODETA – which have escalated since late August.
Several people have died, including in a fatal shooting on 4 September.
The violence has severely affected transport for thousands of workers and learners, especially during the crucial exam period.
Commuter Relief Plan
To reduce disruption, the province has arranged additional transport capacity:
- Golden Arrow Bus Services will increase trips along affected corridors
- Metrorail Western Cape will support with added rail services
The province confirmed that law enforcement officers, provincial traffic teams, and City of Cape Town enforcement units will be deployed for visible policing and to prevent illegal taxi operations.
Anyone caught violating the suspension will face immediate legal consequences.
Call for Peace and Negotiation
Sileku urged taxi associations to use this pause as an opportunity to return to the negotiation table and agree on a sustainable, peaceful resolution.
“The safety and dignity of commuters must be the top priority. We cannot continue losing lives,” he said.
Commuters have expressed concern about the disruption to their daily travel but welcomed measures aimed at restoring peace.
The Western Cape Government stressed that the closures are temporary and are aimed at protecting lives while creating the space for a long-term solution to one of the province’s most persistent transport conflicts.
Would you be a far happier motorist if ALL taxis were banned from ALL routes?
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