The Gauteng Transport Inspectorate (GTI) has intensified its crackdown on unroadworthy vehicles and illegal operators, removing 62 unsafe minibus taxis from provincial roads in a targeted week-long enforcement operation.
Between 22 and 28 September, Gauteng Roads and Transport MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela said inspectors issued 1 104 traffic infringement notices, including 469 manual fines and 635 issued electronically via the e-force system.
‘Death traps’
The violations uncovered ranged from faulty brakes and lights, to missing documentation and the operation of unlicensed vehicles.
Shockingly, 92 drivers were found operating without any form of driving licence, while a further 52 had licences that were either invalid or expired.
“Unroadworthy vehicles and unlicensed drivers are nothing less than potential death traps,” warned MEC Diale-Tlabela.
“We will not tolerate such blatant disregard for the law.”
Zero-Tolerance Approach to Road Safety
The crackdown forms part of a long-term provincial strategy aimed at improving commuter safety, reducing road fatalities, and ensuring regulatory compliance in the public transport sector – particularly among minibus taxi operators.
Diale-Tlabela said the provincial government has adopted a zero-tolerance approach to lawlessness on the roads and warned that those who put profit before lives would face uncompromising enforcement, including vehicle impoundments and possible criminal charges.
A Warning to Motorists
The MEC also urged all Gauteng motorists – not just public transport operators – to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and operating within the ambit of the law.
“These operations are not a once-off. They will continue with greater intensity.
“We are serious about restoring order on our roads and protecting the lives of commuters and other road users,” she said.
The GTI’s enforcement drive comes ahead of the festive season, a period historically marked by increased road accidents and fatalities.
