Operations at the Benoni Taxi Rank and surrounding ranks are at a standstill since this morning (August 28), following a dispute over the ongoing impoundment of taxis.

In a statement, Zweli Mnisi of the South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) in the Ekurhuleni region said the decision to halt operations was triggered by the continuous targeting of 10-seater taxis, commonly known as ‘baby buses’, which are frequently impounded for allegedly not having operating licenses.

“These licenses, however, are no longer being issued by the relevant authorities, leaving operators without any legal recourse,” Mnisi said.

He explained that operators are forced to pay fines of up to R5 000 per vehicle to retrieve their taxis, which he described as an unsustainable financial burden.

“What is particularly concerning is the selective enforcement of the law. While our operators face daily harassment and penalties, seven-seater vehicles — often operating through e-hailing platforms or informal transport services — continue to operate freely without the required permits. These vehicles are hardly stopped or impounded,” Mnisi added.

Mnisi said suspending operations was necessary to protect taxi operators from what they view as ongoing victimisation and financial exploitation. He urged the government to intervene urgently.

“We call on the relevant government departments to engage with the taxi industry and work towards resolving the matter to ensure fair and consistent enforcement across all public transport sectors,” he said.

Commuters are advised to seek alternative modes of transport to get home.

Benoni Taxi Association (BTA) chairperson Derrick Mntambo said it remains uncertain whether taxis will resume operations on August 29.

“We are still waiting for a directive from Santaco,” he said.

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