Limpopo Transport MEC issues stern warning against bribery
Violet Mathye acknowledged that some traffic officers have been known to overlook road rule violations in exchange for money.
POLOKWANE – Transport MEC Violet Mathye has issued a stern warning against the promotion of “cooldrink” (bribes) between drivers and traffic officers.
In line with October’s designation as Transport Month, various issues affecting the transport industry are being discussed extensively.
During the launch event in Waterberg on Friday, Mathye acknowledged that some traffic officers have been known to overlook road rule violations in exchange for money, which she referred to as “cooldrink” to downplay the seriousness of the corruption.
“Cooldrink must fall,” the MEC said, adding the need for integrity in law enforcement. She expressed the department’s desire to see traffic officers reporting incidents where they are offered bribes while on duty.
“We are aware that the police are investigating traffic officers who accept bribes in exchange for not issuing fines to offenders.
This behaviour tarnishes the department’s reputation and must not be tolerated,” she said. Stakeholders within the taxi industry have confided to the Polokwane Observer that their operators are often the primary targets of such practices, even when they adhere to permit and road regulations.
The National Taxi Alliance (NTA) in Limpopo echoed the need for the law to be enforced against operators who engage in bribery when they are at fault.
Provincial coordinator Frans Kgasago stated, “Two parties are involved in this – the corruptor and the corruptee. Both should understand that we do not condone corruption in our transportation system.” Mathye also expressed concern about taxi drivers fastening their seatbelts behind their backs to create the illusion of compliance with safety regulations.
She warned that passengers, already at a heightened risk of road accidents, might mimic this dangerous behaviour.
“Each time they are involved in road crashes, we see a high number of casualties. These crashes are often caused by recklessness and a general disregard for road safety regulations,” she said.
She urged all public transport drivers to act responsibly to protect lives on the roads.
The MEC reassured the public that law enforcement would remain vigilant in addressing reckless and non-compliant driving.
She emphasised that this commitment would extend beyond October Transport Month, continuing into the summer festive season.
