Major Operation Targets Unroadworthy and Non-Compliant Vehicles in Soshanguve
Law enforcement agencies launched a massive pre-dawn operation on Tshwane Roads, in Soshanguve, resulting in 264 taxis being taken off the roads for various violations. The crackdown, aimed at ensuring road safety and compliance, was spearheaded by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), in collaboration with the National Traffic Police, National Traffic Anti-Corruption Unit, Tshwane Metro Police, and the South African Police Service.
Unroadworthy Vehicles Targeted
The operation focused on taxis operating in Soshanguve, with authorities inspecting vehicles for defects, stolen status, and compliance with transport regulations. Among the violations identified were cracked windscreens, expired licence discs, and lack of driving permits.
In total:
- 264 taxis were inspected and removed from the road.
- 18 vehicles were impounded for serious defects.
- One driver was arrested for possession of fraudulent documents.
Driver Violations and Fines
Taxi drivers were also held accountable during the operation. Many were found operating without valid licences or public driving permits. Fines were issued for various infractions, including:
- Driving vehicles with cracked windscreens.
- Using taxis with expired vehicle licence discs.
Festive Season Preparations
The RTMC has announced that similar operations will take place nationwide as part of preparations for the festive season. These measures aim to ensure the safety of commuters and curb the rise of unroadworthy vehicles on South African roads.
Corruption at Licensing Centres
In a related incident, a 59-year-old examiner from the Temba Driving Licence Testing Centre in Hammanskraal was arrested for attempting to bribe an anti-corruption investigator with R50,000. The arrest followed allegations of fraudulent practices involving the issuing of driving licences.
The RTMC’s National Traffic Anti-Corruption Unit, in conjunction with the Hawks, continues to tackle corruption in the licensing system, reinforcing their commitment to road safety.
Also read: Pretoria Citizen Raises Alarm Over Alleged Misuse of Police Vehicles and Public Resources
