Operation Ke Molao leaves hundreds of commuters stranded

Traffic law enforcement authorities have asked commuters to be patient when waiting for taxis or to find alternative modes of transport, following a massive clampdown called Operation Ke Molao, which means it’s the law, which started on 13 May along South African roads.

Edna Mamonyane, spokesperson for Metro police, confirmed that a total of 47 taxis had been impounded along Witkoppen and Main roads, as well as on William Nicol Drive.

Mamonyane explained that the clampdown was an attempt to curb the number of deaths on the roads, especially by unroadworthy taxis. “Chances of losing lives are very high in taxis as they carry more than 18 people,” she said.

“We understand commuters might be stranded, however, it is always better to arrive late than not at all.”

Mamonyane encouraged motorists to make use of alternative modes of transport such as Rea Vaya and the Gautrain.

“I understand that some commuters might not be able to utilise other forms of transport besides taxis, and for those, I encourage them to be patient.”

She added that she often received calls from scared commuters driving in taxis who often feared for their lives and it was the authority’s duty to get all unroadworthy taxis off the road.

Simon Zwane, road traffic management spokesperson said, “We have already asked commuters to bear with us. We are trying to save lives on the road, including theirs. We know it will be an inconvenience, but we want to make sure that there are no coffins on wheels.”

Zwane explained that he had received many complaints from families who had lost their loved ones on the road. “Families wanted us to do this as they are tired of counting bodies. We are also responding to the complaints from motorists and community members.”

Zwane confirmed that the operation would continue for as long as motorists continued to misbehave on the road.

All impounded taxis will be released after a minimum of R1 500 fine is paid and the owner will also need to repair their taxi.