Law enforcement authorities removed 264 unroadworthy taxis from the roads of Soshanguve, north of Pretoria, on November 29

The operation was a decisive effort to ensure road safety ahead of the festive season, according to the Road Traffic Management Corporation.

The crackdown was a coordinated operation involving the National Traffic Police, the National Traffic Anti-Corruption Unit, the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) and South African Police Service (SAPS).

The operation targeted taxis that were found to be operating without the necessary permits, unroadworthy vehicles, suspected stolen taxis, and drivers without valid licenses or public driving permits.

According to Road Traffic Management Corporation spokesperson Simon Zwane, the operation highlighted the ongoing issue of non-compliance within the public transport sector and the efforts of law enforcement to reduce road risks.

Zwane said of the 264 vehicles that were inspected, fines were issued for various violations including cracked windscreens, expired vehicle license discs, and operating public transport without a valid professional driving permit.

“The fines were issued by the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Act, which aims to encourage compliance with road safety regulations. 18 vehicles were impounded due to severe defects, making them a danger to both passengers and other road users,” said Zwane.

Zwane noted that one driver was arrested for having fraudulent documents, further highlighting the issue of illegal operations within the public transport sector.

“Authorities expressed concerns over the safety risks posed by these vehicles, which operate without the necessary checks and balances to protect commuters. With a surge in road traffic expected, these measures are designed to prevent accidents, reduce fatalities, and create safer roads for all.”

Taxis are a vital mode of transport for many residents in Soshanguve and the removal of such a high number of unroadworthy vehicles from the roads emphasizes the need for stricter enforcement and more consistent regulation within the public transport sector.

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