CoCT granted an interim interdict obtained against extortionists in Phillipi

The City of Cape Town has welcomed the Western Cape High Court’s decision to reinstitute the interim interdict against extortionists and others who are determined to derail the MyCiTi construction project along Govan Mbeki Road in Philippi.

The City obtained an interim order against the extortionists on 3 June 2025 after City officials and the contractor’s staff reportedly received death threats and were verbally intimidated.

The matter was heard at the Western Cape High Court on Tuesday between the municipality and the Philippi Business Forum and Crossroads Business Forum, who had to present why the order should not be made permanent.

COURTESY: CoCT - Archive

Residents from the Ramaphosa informal settlement reportedly protested near the construction site along Goven Mbeki Road, last week demanding community and business inclusion in the project. The protest action led to a Golden Arrow bus being torched. Nyanga police have since opened a case of malicious damage to property for further investigation. No arrests have been made yet.

‘’The interdict does not prevent anyone from participating in the project. It only stops those who are trying to hijack it through threats, violence and sabotage The City continues to encourage all eligible businesses to submit their profiles via the clearly marked boxes at the Subcouncil Offices. Those who choose to follow the process fairly will find us ready and willing to support their participation,’’ said Rob Quintas, MMC for Urban Mobility.

‘’I call on the public and the media to remain vigilant against misinformation and disinformation. False claims designed to stoke division and derail progress do not serve the interests of the communities who will benefit from the roll-out of the MyCiTi bus service to these areas. Residents are encouraged to contact the City for more information about how to participate, and get regular updates on the project,’’ he added.

The interdict is effective until 21 April 2026 when the matter will be argued before the court.

 

Done by: Mitchum George