Gauteng Transport Authority Cracks Down on Fake Taxi Patrol Two Arrested

The Gauteng Public Transport Intervention Unit has been praised for its recent successful operation that led to the arrest of two individuals posing as members of a taxi association patrol squad on the N4 highway near Bronkhorstspruit. This swift action underscores the ongoing efforts to enhance road safety and ensure compliance with transport regulations in the province.

MEC for Transport and Logistics in Gauteng, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, expressed her commendation following the apprehension of the suspects during the ongoing #Fatela Road Safety operation. The two undocumented foreign nationals were allegedly utilizing a vehicle with a false registration plate, a fraudulent license disk, and engaging in acts of extortion against minibus taxi operators.

With the threats of impounding vehicles unless a R2500 spot fine was paid, these impersonators created a hostile atmosphere for legitimate taxi operations. Their actions were not only illegal but also posed a considerable risk to the smooth functioning of the public transport system in Gauteng—a critical lifeline for many of its residents.

The operation, which is part of a broader initiative to promote the safe use of the province's roads, led to the seizure of two minibus taxis and a sedan suspected to be stolen. The latter was sent to the Pretoria Vehicle Identification Service unit for an in-depth investigation.

Diale-Tlabela, who was present during the arrests, said, “The unit continues to play an important role in maintaining law and order in the public transport system. We welcome the arrest of the two suspects as these individuals pose a serious threat to the peaceful operation of minibus taxis in our province.”

The successful operation came as a response to a series of complaints about similar extortion incidents on the N4 route over the past months. These reports had generated considerable public concern and highlighted the need for rigorous action from law enforcement entities.

The Gauteng Department of Transport has made clear its intentions to keep conducting #Fatela road safety drives throughout January and the subsequent months. Through education on road safety, fostering responsible road usage, and a zero-tolerance stance towards lawlessness and drunk driving, the initiative strives to reduce the toll of road accidents, which are among the leading causes of fatalities and injuries on the roads.

Furthermore, the Public Transport Intervention Unit is tasked with the crucial role of maintaining visibility and compliance on provincial roads, sending a clear message that infringements will not be tolerated and that illegal activities will be addressed decisively.

The recent arrests are a testament to the department’s commitment to curbing illegal activities, ensuring the safety of commuters, and upholding the lawful operations of taxis and other public transport services. Ensuring a secure and orderly transport environment is not only beneficial for road users but also serves the economic interests of the region by facilitating efficient and safe travel.