The City of Cape Town is pursuing an urgent court order to stop a group accused of extortion at two new MyCiTi bus depots on the Cape Flats. The group has disrupted operations by removing security guards. Law enforcement has been deployed to maintain stability.
The City of Cape Town's Urban Mobility Directorate has moved swiftly to protect its public transport infrastructure. On November 26, 2025, the city announced it is seeking an urgent interdict against alleged extortionists targeting two newly established MyCiTi depots. These facilities, located at the corner of Spine Road and Mew Way between Khayelitsha and Mitchell's Plain on the Cape Flats, have become the focus of attempts to replace the legally appointed security provider with a preferred alternative.
Councillor Rob Quintas, the Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility, detailed the disruptions in a statement. "The group has attempted to disrupt operations at the depots," he said. On Monday, the group forcibly removed the appointed security guards from the Spine Road depot, escalating concerns over safety and service continuity.
To address the immediate threat, law enforcement officers have been deployed to the sites to stabilize the situation. Quintas emphasized the seriousness of the matter: "Any threat of vandalism, intimidation or disruption of municipal services are criminal offences and will be treated as such." The city has also opened cases with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to pursue legal action against those involved.
This incident highlights ongoing challenges in securing public transport expansions in high-risk areas. The MyCiTi network, aimed at improving mobility in underserved communities, now faces hurdles from organized interference. The city's response underscores its commitment to upholding lawful operations and protecting essential services for residents.