R10k bail for extortion and kidnapping accused Cape Town law enforcement officers

Two City law enforcement officers accused of targeting foreign-owned spaza shops have been released on bail of R10 000 each.

Christopher Molifie and Justin McKay appeared in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court on Monday following their arrest last week. The pair face seven charges, including robbery, theft, kidnapping and extortion.

At their first appearance, National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila confirmed that the State opposed the men’s release on bail, citing the seriousness of the allegations. Despite this, the court granted bail subject to stringent conditions.

In terms of their bail conditions, both McKay and Molifie must attend every court appearance until the matter is finalised and report to their respective police stations every Wednesday between 8am and 8pm.

The accused are prohibited from having any direct or indirect contact with the complainants or witnesses for the duration of the case. They are also required to inform the investigating officer, or an authorised delegate, of any change to their residential addresses.

In addition, the court ordered that the two may not leave the province without first notifying the investigating officer or an authorised successor.

Molifie’s lawyer, Bruce Hendricks, welcomed the court’s decision, saying they were relieved their client could return home.

“We are glad that Mr Molifie can be home with his family. His innocence will be proven at his trial,” Hendricks said.

The officers were arrested by the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team, working in collaboration with the City’s Safety and Security Information Management Services.

It is alleged that the two officers who were attached to the City’s Metal Theft Unit extorted money from foreign-owned spaza shop owners since January.

Investigators further believe that during one incident, cigarettes worth more than R600 000 were stolen while a victim was being processed at the Philippi East police station.

It has also emerged that Molifie and McKay were previously arrested in May on similar allegations and were released on bail at the time.

The City has confirmed that both officers have been suspended pending the outcome of its internal disciplinary processes, which are continuing alongside the criminal case.

Molifie and McKay are expected to return to the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court on February 20, 2026.

Cape Times