Clamping Down: Gauteng’s Transport Cops Arrest Bribers, Impound Dozens of Taxis

Gauteng’s roads are under a tightened grip as the provincial Transport Inspectorate (GTI) flexes its enforcement muscle, resulting in a wave of arrests, impoundments, and fines targeting lawless drivers, particularly in the public transport sector.

In a week-long blitz from November 17 to 23, the GTI, working with the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), conducted high-impact stop-and-search operations across major transport corridors. The results were stark, revealing a troubling level of non-compliance and criminality.

Bribes, Booze, and Stolen Cars

The operations netted a variety of offenders. Officers arrested one motorist for being in possession of a stolen vehicle and two others for driving under the influence of alcohol. In a telling sign of the challenges faced by authorities, two individuals were also arrested for attempting to bribe the officers.

A Blitz on Non-Compliant Taxis

The crackdown placed a heavy focus on the minibus taxi industry, with devastating results for operators flouting the law. Key findings included:

• 52 minibus taxi drivers were found operating without a valid driver’s licence.

• 14 operators were driving vehicles without a valid licence disc.

• A total of 49 minibus taxis were issued with discontinuation notices (effectively impounded) for various non-compliance issues.

Overall, 52 vehicles of all types were discontinued during the week for failing to meet road safety regulations. Officers also issued over 250 infringement notices, both manually and using electronic e-Force devices.

“Reclaiming Our Roads”

Gauteng MEC for Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela applauded the teams, framing the operations as the start of a crucial campaign. “The process of reclaiming our roads from lawlessness and impunity has started in earnest,” she stated.

“Our message is clear: if you choose to undermine traffic laws in Gauteng, you will face the full might of the law.”

The department emphasised that these operations are part of a sustained commitment to increase police visibility and enforce compliance, signalling a zero-tolerance approach to criminality on the roads. With a dedicated team of 96 officers, the GTI’s mission is clear: to clamp down on illegal operations and make Gauteng’s chaotic transport corridors safer for everyone.

{Source: Citizen}

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