A Mpumalanga minibus driver, Bheki Nkosi, is recovering from a harrowing encounter with rogue taxi operators who confiscated his vehicle and demanded R15,000 for its return. Nkosi, contracted by a local college, had just transported 14 students from a farewell event at the Malalane Kruger Lodge on Saturday when he was stopped along the N4 by armed individuals claiming to represent the Malalane Taxi Association (MTA).
The taxi patrollers accused Nkosi of operating without being a member of their association and demanded an immediate R1,500 fine. Despite Nkosi’s explanation that he only had R400 for toll fees and fuel, the men forcibly redirected him and his passengers to the Malalane taxi rank.
Upon arrival, the patrollers seized the keys to Nkosi’s Toyota Quantum and escalated their demand to R15,000 for the vehicle’s release. Nkosi and the college principal, Mark Nzimande, who was accompanying the students, reported the incident to the Malalane police station.
Students Caught in the Crossfire
The patrollers, meanwhile, loaded the distressed students into another vehicle and transported them home. One of the students recounted the ordeal: “It was terrifying. I thought we were going to be shot. Some of us started crying, and the principal tried to keep us calm.”
Police Investigation Underway
Nkosi’s tracker later located his vehicle at a house in Naas near Komatipoort. However, when tracker personnel arrived, the property was empty, and the car was locked. Nkosi has since registered a case of theft, while Mpumalanga police have pledged to retrieve the vehicle and hold those responsible accountable.
Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, a police spokesperson, confirmed ongoing investigations: “We are working with the tracker company and officers in the area to recover the vehicle.”
Community Outrage
Principal Nzimande, who frequently contracts Nkosi for student transportation, expressed frustration over the brazen conduct of the taxi patrollers: “These people acted as if they are above the law, showing no respect even in the presence of police. This level of harassment is unacceptable.”
MTA treasurer Ali Nkomo distanced the association from the incident, labeling the behavior as “naughty” and inconsistent with MTA’s protocols.
Government Response
Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security, and Liaison, Jacky Macie, strongly condemned the incident: “No one has the right to harass motorists or seize their vehicles. Police are actively investigating, and arrests will follow if necessary.”
Pattern of Harassment
The incident highlights a recurring issue in the region. Last month, similar cases were reported where motorists were targeted by taxi operators for giving rides to hitchhikers. One such case involved a Barberton man who was threatened for assisting a neighbor.
Authorities have vowed to address these escalating incidents, ensuring the safety of road users and accountability for unlawful actions by taxi operators.
