Mpumalanga taxi boss Joe "Ferrari" Sibanyoni appeared before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, to explain payments made towards the legal costs of Gwabo Mahlangu, a convicted hitman. Sibanyoni denied allegations that the payments reflected a deeper relationship with Mahlangu or criminal activity. According to Sibanyoni, the hitman's family, specifically his mother, approached him for help with the legal expenses.
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry is investigating allegations surrounding the taxi industry, including extortion and interference within the South African Police Service (SAPS). Sibanyoni's payments came under scrutiny after WhatsApp messages recovered from the phone of his associate, Bafana Sindane, were presented to the commission. The messages allegedly indicated that Sibanyoni and Sindane were involved in paying legal expenses for at least two people convicted of taxi-related murders.
Chief evidence leader Matthew Chaskalson questioned Sibanyoni about the reasons for the alleged payments, pressing him on the nature of his relationship with Mahlangu. Sibanyoni maintained that his involvement was solely based on a request from Mahlangu's mother and denied any wrongdoing. The commission is examining the evidence to determine if Sibanyoni's actions were part of a larger criminal scheme.
The issue of payments to convicted individuals is part of a broader investigation into the taxi industry. On Monday, Chaskalson read messages from Sindane's phone, which allegedly showed taxi bosses demanding monthly payments from a contractor working on the Moloto Road project. The inquiry also heard that Sindane had attempted to stop the commission from hearing his testimony through an urgent application, which was struck off the roll by the High Court in Pretoria.
Sibanyoni's appearance before the commission is part of a larger effort to uncover alleged extortion and corruption within the taxi industry. The commission has heard testimony from various individuals, including those who claim to have been forced to pay "protection fees" to taxi bosses. Sibanyoni's explanation for the payments to Mahlangu's family is being scrutinized as part of this larger investigation.
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry has been convened to investigate allegations of corruption and extortion within the taxi industry. The commission's proceedings continue, with further testimony and evidence expected to be heard in the coming days. Sibanyoni's testimony provides insight into the complex web of relationships and transactions that underpin the taxi industry.
The investigation into Sibanyoni's activities is ongoing, with the commission expected to make recommendations on potential further action. Sibanyoni's business dealings have been under scrutiny, including a R900,000 payment to a man accusing him of extortion. The outcome of the commission's inquiry will likely have significant implications for the taxi industry and those involved.
Key points
- Mpumalanga taxi boss Joe "Ferrari" Sibanyoni claims he paid legal fees for a convicted hitman at the request of the hitman's mother.
- The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry is investigating allegations of extortion and corruption within the taxi industry.
- Sibanyoni's testimony provides insight into the complex web of relationships and transactions that underpin the taxi industry.
