Motorists’ personal details left unsecured at Piet Koornhof Building
Security personnel tried to stop journalists from filming the unsecured documents as queuing motorists faced long delays.
A visit by Witbank News today (August 27) to the office, the Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport (DPWRT) is using at the Piet Koornhof Building to distribute licences, revealed that motorists’ personal information is being handled poorly.
In an unlocked office adjacent to the one the department uses, licensing documents are shoved into green bin bags and stacked in a corner. Some of the bags are torn, with documents containing identifying information easily accessible to anyone passing by.
When the building’s security personnel saw Witbank News journalists recording videos and taking photos, they tried to stop them.
Green light for license collection -motorists can collect their licenses https://t.co/Awzj02E4sE
— WitbankNews (@WitbankN) August 24, 2026
Security fails to explain open door
When asked about access control, one security guard said everyone must sign in before entering the building. He could not, however, explain why the office where the documents are stored is not only unlocked, but left with the door open.
READ MORE No timeline has been given for motorists to collect driver’s licences trapped inside the closed licensing office
Queues of motorists were seen standing outside the office waiting for their names to be called.
“I have been standing here for more than four hours,” one motorist said.
When staff were approached regarding public complaints, they merely mumbled that they were not allowed to speak to the media.
Photos and videos were sent to the DPWRT spokesperson Moeti Mmusi, who is yet to issue a response.
Department of Labour closes unsafe building
Following recent reporting by Witbank News, the Department of Employment and Labour (DoLE) closed the main licensing office operation under the DPWRT after it was found that the building was not safe for the public or employees.
SEE THE VIDEO HERE
“The department failed to provide a health and safety environment by failing to maintain building structures,” said Boikie Mampuru, the provincial chief inspector of the DoLE.
“The building was prohibited for occupation due to unsafe electrical installations, biological hazards caused by water leaks in the building, and ceiling boards [that] may collapse at any given time.”
While licences can be collected at the Piet Koornhof Building, the DPWRT has advised motorists to go to Bronkhorstspruit, Ga-Nala or Middelburg for their licence applications.
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