Three taxi squad members arrested for intimidation, extortion

Gauteng Traffic Police spokesperson Obed Sibasa says the arrests follow a myriad of complaints by motorists.

The three suspects were arrested in Soweto.

“It is alleged that the taxi squad car pulled over a minibus on Soweto highway in Diepkloof, Soweto forced the driver and occupants out of the vehicle and took their minibus keys demanding money for the minibus to be released.

“Swift response by the police led to the arrest of three suspects driving a branded taxi owner association sedan they were charged with intimidation, extortion and robbery,” says Sibasa.

Sibasa says police are determined to put an end to the behaviour.

“We send a strong message to taxi association squad cars, Gauteng traffic police and other law enforcement agencies. We have been receiving information, complaints from communities, workers, company vehicle owners across the province.

 “They are being pulled over drivers, occupants sometimes pointed with guns this is illegal and in terms of National Land Transport Act, only law enforcers are permitted by law to pull over vehicles.

“Gauteng public transport has over the past four weeks arrested five different taxi association squad for a similar crime in the Vaal, Ekurhuleni, Soweto and Tshwane,” he said.

The three suspects are expected to appear in Orlando Magistrate’s Court soon.

Listen to Obed Sibasa below:

ALSO READ