SAPS ramps up deployments in WC ahead of elections amid taxi violence
Western Cape Police Commissioner Sizakhele Dyantyi says additional officers have been deployed to taxi routes, transport hubs and crime hotspots.
Sara-Jayne Makwala King
Minibus taxis torched after violence erupted in the Western Cape taxi industry on 10 March 2026. Picture: Ntuthuzelo Nene/EWN
Ntuthuzelo Nene/EWN
Police in the Western Cape police say they are ready to keep voters safe during this week's local government elections.
That's despite growing concerns over taxi violence and gang activity in the province.
Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Sizakhele Dyantyi says additional officers have been deployed to crime hotspots, transport hubs and taxi routes.
Speaking to CapeTalk's Lester Kiewit, Dyantyi said police were prepped and ready.
"We are excited as law enforcement agencies because it is our duty and task to ensure that we present an environment that is conducive for the people."
Kiewit asked how concerned Dyantyi was that the recent spike in taxi violence could have an impact on the polls.
"We'll remain focused with the elections in the polling station, whereas we have also additional staff that will be looking to the contingency when it comes to the issues of taxi violence, when it comes to the issues of gang violence."
There has been a spike in taxi violence recently, including a shooting in Delft last week involving AK-47 rifles.
The violence has raised concerns about the safety of commuters and learners, more so given that thousands of people are preparing to head to voting stations on Wednesday.
"I think that the other authorities are also hard at work in terms of finding solutions to this issue of the taxi violence."
Dyantyi said police had adjusted their deployments to respond to the current situation.
"In the transport hub, we have increased our deployment on the route."
He said police were also using intelligence officers to gather information.
"We have intelligence that is deployed for the purpose of proactive gathering of information."
Meanwhile, officers who had planned to take leave have been called back on duty to make sure there are enough boots on the ground during election week.
Dyantyi said law enforcement agencies were working together to maintain safety and ensure voting could take place without disruption.
Special voting begins today (Monday), ahead of the main municipal elections on Wednesday.