Warrant Issued for Durban Taxi Boss Thomas Getsemane

DURBAN - Police in KwaZulu-Natal have issued an active J50 warrant of arrest for Durban businessman and Inanda Taxi Association chairperson, Thomas Siyabonga Getsemane.

The warrant stems from fraud and extortion charges dating back to 2023. Law enforcement officers raided Getsemane’s residence in La Lucia, north of Durban, on July 20 to execute the warrant, but failed to locate him. Police confirm that active efforts to trace his whereabouts remain ongoing.

A History of Legal Battles and Feuds

Getsemane’s arrest warrant comes amidst long-standing tensions with top South African Police Service (SAPS) leadership:

 * Court Interdict Against SAPS Leadership: Getsemane previously filed an urgent court application for an interdict against KZN Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, alleging harassment and direct threats.

 * The Qala Quarry Incident (2023): In November 2023, Getsemane and 11 bodyguards were arrested during a high-profile SAPS raid at Qala Quarry in Inanda on trespassing and intimidation allegations. The NPA ultimately declined to prosecute, citing insufficient evidence.

 * R100 Million Civil Lawsuit: Following the dismissed 2023 charges, Getsemane launched a R100 million lawsuit against SAPS and former Police Minister Bheki Cele for unlawful arrest, trauma, and public defamation after being publicly linked to construction mafia operations.

SAPS has urged anyone with information regarding Getsemane's location to come forward as tactical operations continue.