R500 bail each for 52 arrested in taxi violence

THE 52 people arrested for public violence, damage to property and stolen property during Monday’s violent taxi strike were released on R500 bail each at the Athlone Magistrate’s Court yesterday.

The accused had to be divided into three groups because they could not all fit inside the courtroom together. Each group would appear on different dates in November when their cases resume.

Some of the accused stood in the witness box while others lined the sides of the courtroom.

The public gallery was packed, and family and friends of the accused waited outside.

Prosecutor Nangamso Matta, who told magistrate Keith le Keur she did not oppose bail for the accused, said the 52 participated in the strike by throwing stones at motorists and looting shops in Philippi.

Chaos broke out in various parts of the city following taxi drivers downing tools as they were unhappy over delayed provincial leadership elections, impounding of minibus taxis, and exorbitant traffic fines.

Golden Arrow Bus Services confirmed 10 of its drivers and about 10 passengers were injured when the buses they were travelling in were stoned.

Police had to use rubber bullets to disperse the unruly crowds across Cape Town.

Taxi bosses claimed law enforcement agencies were targeting minibuses when enforcing traffic laws.

The strike action, which was called off at midday on Monday following a meeting between Transport MEC Donald Grant and taxi owners, brought the city to a near-standstill and resulted in thousands of commuters being stranded or having to seek alternative transport.

A family member of one of the accused, who did not want to be named, told the Cape Times he was happy they had been granted bail.

“Our worry was for them to go to Pollsmoor (Prison). Luckily, they will be sleeping at home and will attend the case from the outside,” he said.