Taxis targeted in large-scale operation
BRYANSTON - Motorists commuting on Main Road witnessed the spectacle of dozens of taxis lined up, surrounded by the numerous law enforcement agencies.
In a joint operation on 18 November between Metro police, the Gauteng flying squad, the Gauteng tactical force, Gauteng traffic police and the Department of Community Safety, Main Road was monitored for disobedient behaviour by taxi drivers.
According to Superintendent Edna Mamonyane, spokesperson for Metro police, the City of Joburg has received numerous complaints from motorists and residents about unlawful taxi drivers.
Mamonyane said they had started conducting operations to monitor taxis a few weeks ago in problem areas like Main Road in Bryanston. She explained that police officers have been instructed to be extra vigilant of taxi behaviour, but could not confirm if the operation was related in any way to the recent taxi strike.
Mamonyane said during the operation, taxis were stopped if they were found to be engaged in unlawful driving. Passengers were asked to alight from unlawful taxis and were accommodated in other taxis.
Mamonyane said Metro police required the input from the Gauteng traffic police and the Gauteng tactical force as they have started impounding taxis that break the law.
“Impounding the taxis frustrates the drivers because they lose out on business,” Mamonyane said. “This forces them to be responsible.”
Mamonyane said 10 taxis were impounded during the Main Road operation on 18 November.
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