Taxi Boss Joe ‘Ferrari’ Sibanyoni Courts Appearance Leads to Continued Custody
Kwaggafontein – Taxi executive Joe “Ferrari” Sibanyoni, along with his co-defendants, Mvimbi Masilela and Philemon Msiza, appeared in the Mkobola Magistrate’s Court in Kwaggafontein, Mpumalanga, to face extortion charges.
The suspects were detained yesterday, Tuesday, 12 May 2026, for allegedly demanding a “protection fee” from a businessman over an extended period of time.
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The famed taxi operator, known as “Joe Ferrari” due to his love for sports cars, attended court today, Wednesday, 13 May 2026, to address the extortion claims.
The courtroom was packed, overseen by heavily armed police personnel.
Despite the circumstances, the 60-year-old taxi operator smiled and told reporters that he considers himself a “Man of God.”
“As a Man of God, I’m feeling positive and liberated,” Sibanyoni remarked.
“For me, it seems like I’m simply here to deliver a sermon to those incarcerated, nothing beyond that.”
At the commencement of the proceedings, defense attorney Advocate Shaun Abrams SC expressed concerns regarding what he called the “unpleasant” treatment his client, Sibanyoni, has been subjected to by the National Public Prosecution (NPA) and the investigative police team.
Abrams, a former National Director of Public Prosecution, stated: “The state has been entirely silent towards us.
“They have disregarded our requests.
“No one has engaged with us. We are disappointed with their handling of this case. Nonetheless, my client remains optimistic.”
All three suspects, Sibanyoni, Masilela, and Msiza, were remanded in custody.
The next court appearance is scheduled for Friday, 15 May 2026.
Mpumalanga Police Spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masando clarified that the arrest of Sibanyoni, who has been referenced in witness statements at the Madlanga Commission, is not linked to any allegations of misconduct arising from the ongoing inquiry.