Fed-up Fourways residents are taking matters into their own hands, flooding community groups every morning with photos of taxi drivers who blatantly disregard traffic laws.

These images and videos are then sent to the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), in the hope of sparking action against what they describe as: “Lawlessness on the roads.”

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Ward 132 councillor Annette Deppe has also been inundated with similar clips and photos from residents. On September 19, one clip, sent by a frustrated resident, shows two minibus taxis brazenly driving through a red traffic light. “This video is just one of many that have been sent to me as a councillor, highlighting issues with taxis not obeying traffic laws. They are running red lights, cutting in front of other vehicles, weaving through traffic, and driving on shoulders.

“This behaviour seems to have increased significantly over the past few months, and it feels like there is currently a lack of control over the taxi industry.”

Deppe added that such disregard for the rules seems to come in waves. “The taxi industry goes through phases. They’ll adhere to the rules, and then, suddenly, there are periods of reckless driving and lawlessness. I suspect this is due to underlying issues within the industry, which is reflected in their current behaviour.”

@caxtonjoburgnorth The moment two taxis brazenly cross a red light, which left residents with anger. #JMPD #FourwaysReview ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

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Deppe, on September 11, called out the lack of effective enforcement from JMPD, after a taxi driver allegedly cut across several lanes of traffic and skipped a red light on Woodmead Drive.

Xolani Fihla, from JMPD, said they acknowledge the public’s concern, and are actively working to improve visible, proactive traffic law enforcement, with increased patrols and targeted enforcement. “We are also expanding the use of specialised units, focused specifically on public transport, including taxis, to address frequent violations.

“These allegations highlight a critical area for improvement within the JMPD. We are committed to rebuilding public trust by ensuring our officers are held accountable and by demonstrating a clear, proactive approach to traffic law enforcement.”

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