Gauteng operations remove 63 taxis and impound dozens of vehicles in one week

The Gauteng Transport Inspectorate (GTI) removed a number of unroadworthy public transport vehicles during intensified stop-and-search operations conducted across Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni and Tshwane from 18 to 24 May 2026, the Gauteng Provincial Government said.

What the week-long operations found

The provincial government said the GTI declared 63 minibus taxis unroadworthy after inspecting vehicles and finding serious mechanical defects. Reported faults included faulty brakes, worn tyres, broken headlights and brake lights, and cracked windscreens.

In addition to the discontinued taxis, 48 private vehicles were impounded, with 29 of those impounded in Ekurhuleni and 19 in Tshwane.

Enforcement activity and notices

The operations were carried out in collaboration with the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC). During the cycle the GTI recorded:

• 138 vehicles issued with discontinuation notices for non-compliance with road safety regulations
• 200 manual infringement notices issued
• 334 electronic infringement notices processed through GTI’s e-Force devices

Driver and operator non-compliance, and arrests

Inspectors found 67 minibus taxi operators driving without valid driving licences, and 22 taxis operating without valid licence discs.

The operations also targeted broader criminal activity. The provincial government reported six arrests for offences including driving under the influence, interference with law enforcement officials, and attempted bribery.

Provincial response

Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, expressed concern over the mechanical defects found and urged vehicle owners to keep vehicles roadworthy. She said the department remains committed to safer roads and restoring order within the public transport sector.

“We appeal to motorists and operators to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and safe for the road. On the other hand, we commend the work of the Gauteng Transport Inspectorate and various traffic law-enforcement agencies involved for their dedication, vigilance, and decisive action in removing unroadworthy vehicles from public roads and apprehending offenders who undermine the rule of law.”

The provincial government emphasised the continued focus on major public transport corridors as part of its enforcement strategy.