Gauteng’s Roads and Transport MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela has strongly condemned recent incidents of intimidation, threats, and extortion within the taxi industry.

According to the department, individuals using fear and unlawful influence are targeting industry members to advance their own interests.

The issue has now been referred to the Provincial Taxi Task Team. The MEC has urged all stakeholders to immediately stop all forms of unlawful conduct, including violence and extortion.

Stressing that criminality has no place in the public transport system, the MEC warned that wrongdoers will face the full might of the law.

“There is no place for criminality in Gauteng’s public transport system. No individual or group has the right to use intimidation, threats or extortion to advance its interests. Those who engage in such conduct must know that they will face the full might of the law,” said Diale-Tlabela.

Industry members are being urged to resolve disputes through established structures and lawful processes rather than coercion.

“Intimidation and coercion cannot be allowed to undermine the stability of the industry or compromise the safety and livelihoods of those who depend on it.”

The department will continue to work with the taxi industry, law enforcement agencies, and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen lawfulness, stability and accountability within Gauteng’s public transport system.