Taxi operators that target motorists who pick up hitchhikers and demand thousands of rand as a “fine” have been warned by Eastern Cape transport MEC Xolile Nqatha that their permits will be terminated and they run the risk of jail or steep fines.
Nqatha issued the warning after a spate of bullying cases against motorists by taxi industry officials since the opening of state schools a week ago.
Nqatha’s spokesperson, Makhaya Komisa, said they were shocked that it was continuing even after the provincial government officially prohibited it in 2023.
“People who stop motorists without having the authority to do so on the road must know that they are committing a crime.
“Responding to the latest developments on our roads, the MEC has taken a decision that if your number plate is captured while in the act, the department has the right to confiscate your permit and [this] was discussed with the taxi industry, they are aware, even the bus operators.”
In January 2023, the provincial transport department gazetted the prohibition in terms of Section 85 of the National Land Transport Act, which states that no person purporting to be traffic officers in the province should stop vehicles and perform the functions of the inspectors.
Offenders could face a term of not more than two years’ direct imprisonment or a R100,000 fine.
Nqatha’s statement comes after a 43-year-old pedestrian was knocked over and killed by a motorist who was allegedly chased by taxi operators at Ducats in East London at the weekend.
The incident occurred when the driver of a private vehicle gave a lift to a hitchhiker from East London to Komani on Saturday.
As the driver approached the N6 towards Komani, he noticed two white Suzuki Ertiga vehicles.
The taxis are said to have chased the vehicle and when the driver reached the Ducats South turn-off, another Suzuki Ertiga blocked the road.
“The driver swerved but collided with the pedestrian,” Komisa said.
The pedestrian died at the scene.
A funeral parlour owner said their driver was living in fear after he was pulled over by taxi operators and fined R7,000 for picking up a hitchhiker while transporting a coffin from East London to a funeral in the former Transkei.
“I paid the money, all I wanted to know is how will my money be reimbursed?”
Santaco’s Lungiswa Mabija said: “If such acts happen, then they are not affiliated to the association.
“I will admit that some people have found a loophole and impose themselves as patrollers and take chances.”
Community activist Amanda Timms said taxi drivers had been seen stopping cars, especially near Hemingways.
Timms said drastic measures were needed in the light of the Ducats incident.
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