Taxi Boss Claims Musicians Were Targeted Because of Their Connection to Him
Who Is Joe “Ferrari” Sibanyoni?
Joe “Ferrari” Sibanyoni is a well‑known figure in Mpumalanga’s taxi industry. He has been in the business for decades and says he built strong personal ties with many people, including musicians.
The Musicians Involved
Oupa “DJ Sumbody” Sefoka
DJ Sumbody was a popular South African DJ and producer. He was shot and killed in Johannesburg in 2022.
Seunkie “DJ Vettys” Mokubung
DJ Vettys survived a shooting attempt in 2024. He is also a well‑known DJ who often performed at events linked to the taxi scene.
Sibanyoni’s Testimony Before the Madlanga Commission
During his appearance before the Madlanga Commission, Sibanyoni explained how he knew DJ Sumbody’s family for about 30 years. Their friendship started in the taxi world and later grew into a social connection.
“We knew each other in the social spaces,” Sibanyoni told the commission.
Linking the Attacks to a Wider Conflict
Sibanyoni said the violence against the two DJs was not random. He believes the attacks were aimed at people close to him, whether they worked in the taxi industry or just hung out socially.
When asked directly if he thought the musicians were targeted because of their proximity to him, he answered:
“Correct.”
Background: A Cocaine Shipment Dispute
The commission’s hearings are taking place amid claims of a violent battle over a stolen R200 million cocaine shipment. Several high‑profile killings and attempted killings have been allegedly tied to this underworld turf war.
Evidence Recovered by Police
- Firearms, including an AK‑47, have been seized.
- Ballistic tests connect these weapons to multiple cases.
Who Is Facing Charges?
Among those accused are:
- Katiso “KT” Molefe
- Michael Pule Tau (alleged hitman)
- Tiego Floyd Mabisela (alleged hitman)
- Musa Kekana (alleged hitman)
They face a combined 35 counts, including murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and possession of unlicensed firearms. Their trial is set to start in the South Gauteng High Court on 26 October 2026.
What Happens Next?
Sibanyoni is scheduled for cross‑examination before the commission on 21 September. His testimony could shed more light on how personal relationships in the taxi and music worlds may have become entangled in a larger criminal conflict.
Conclusion
The testimony of Joe “Ferrari” Sibanyoni highlights a troubling pattern: violence that appears to target individuals simply because they are close to a powerful figure in the taxi industry. As the investigation continues, the case reminds us how personal connections can sometimes put people in danger when larger criminal disputes erupt. For teens and anyone following the story, it’s a stark reminder to stay aware of the environments we choose to be part of and to seek help if we ever feel unsafe.
