Two City of Cape Town law enforcement officers accused of targeting foreign-owned spaza shops have been released on bail of R10 000 each, following their appearance in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court.
Christopher Molifie and Justin McKay appeared in court on Monday after being arrested last week. The pair face seven serious charges, including robbery, theft, kidnapping and extortion, linked to alleged abuses committed while on duty.
At their first court appearance, National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila confirmed that the State had opposed bail, citing the gravity of the allegations and concerns around the administration of justice. Despite this, the court ruled in favour of bail, subject to strict and closely monitored conditions.
Strict Bail Conditions Imposed
In granting bail, the magistrate imposed a number of conditions aimed at limiting the accused officers’ movements and interactions.
Both Molifie and McKay are required to pay R10 000 each and must attend all court proceedings until the matter is finalised. They are also required to report to their respective police stations every Wednesday between 08:00 and 20:00.
The court further ordered that the two may not have any direct or indirect contact with complainants or potential witnesses. Any change in residential address must be reported to the investigating officer or an authorised delegate without delay.
In addition, the accused are prohibited from leaving the Western Cape without prior notification to the investigating officer.
Defence Welcomes Bail Decision
Molifie’s legal representative, Bruce Hendricks, welcomed the ruling, saying the defence was relieved that his client would be able to return home.
“We are glad that Mr Molifie can be home with his family. His innocence will be proven at his trial,” Hendricks told the court.
The defence maintains that the allegations will be challenged during the trial process.
Allegations of Targeting Spaza Shops
According to investigators, the two officers were attached to the City of Cape Town’s Metal Theft Unit at the time of the alleged offences. Authorities claim the pair extorted money from foreign-owned spaza shop owners over an extended period, dating back to January.
Investigators further allege that during one incident, cigarettes valued at more than R600 000 were stolen while a victim was being processed at the Philippi East police station.
The arrests were carried out by the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team, working alongside the City of Cape Town’s Safety and Security Information Management Services.
Previous Arrests and Suspension
It has also emerged that Molifie and McKay were previously arrested in May on similar allegations and were released on bail at that time.
The City of Cape Town has since confirmed that both officers have been suspended from duty, pending the outcome of internal disciplinary processes. These internal proceedings are running in parallel with the criminal case.
Case Postponed to 2026
The matter has been postponed, and Molifie and McKay are expected to return to the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court on 20 February 2026.
As the case unfolds, it adds to ongoing concerns around corruption, abuse of power and accountability within law enforcement, particularly in communities already vulnerable to exploitation.
