‘Lawlessness Will Not Be Normalised’: Gauteng Roads MEC Warns Motorists, Taxi Operators

The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport (GDRT) has issued a stern warning to motorists and public transport operators who continue to disregard traffic regulations and defy law enforcement directives.

The department said it has observed with “serious concern” the persistent non-compliance with key legislative requirements, including:

• Driving without a valid driver’s licence

• Operating public transport vehicles without a Professional Driving Permit (PrDP)

• Operating without a valid operating licence

• Driving unroadworthy vehicles on public roads

The MEC’s Message

Roads MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela emphasised that decisive enforcement action will be intensified to restore compliance and protect road users.

“Lawlessness on our roads will not be normalised. Those who deliberately ignore traffic and public transport laws must be prepared to face the full might of the law, including substantial fines, vehicle impoundment, and possible arrest.”

The Danger

The department stressed that vehicles operating without proper documentation or in unsafe mechanical condition pose a direct threat to passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists.

“Our law enforcement officers are deployed to protect and safeguard lives. Any operator who chooses to function outside the legal framework is endangering communities and undermining collective road safety efforts,” said Diale-Tlabela.

The Consequences

Public transport operators are reminded that valid operating licences and strict adherence to approved routes remain mandatory.

Vehicles found operating illegally or deviating from authorised routes will be impounded without exception, with storage and release costs borne by the owner.

“Your vehicle is your livelihood. When it is impounded, your income is immediately affected. Compliance is not only a legal requirement; it is an economic necessity,” the MEC said.

Operating an unroadworthy vehicle constitutes a criminal offence and may invalidate insurance claims, leaving operators fully liable in the event of crashes.

What Road Users Must Do

The department urges all road users to:

• Carry a valid driver’s licence at all times

• Obtain and maintain valid PrDPs, where required

• Operate strictly with valid operating licences and on approved routes

• Ensure vehicles are roadworthy and meet safety standards

The Bottom Line

“We remain resolute in our commitment to safer roads in Gauteng. Compliance saves lives, protects livelihoods and restores order within the public transport environment,” said Diale-Tlabela.

The department is calling on communities, transport operators, and motorists to work collaboratively with law enforcement to build a culture of accountability, safety, and responsible road use.

No licence? No PrDP? No operating licence? No mercy.

{Source: Citizen}

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