Over 50 taxis discontinued, vehicles impounded for failing roadworthy requirements
The high-impact stop-and-search operations by the Gauteng Transport Inspectorate (GTI), in collaboration with the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), led to fifty-two minibus taxis being discontinued and twelve vehicles impounded for not meeting roadworthy requirements.
In the week of 23–29 March 2026, GTI conducted targeted operations focused on major public and scholar transport routes identified as high-risk for non-compliance and road safety violations. These were set up across Johannesburg, Tshwane, and Ekurhuleni.
These intensive law-enforcement operations are aimed at enhancing visibility, curb lawlessness on the roads whilst also combating criminal activity, and improving compliance with traffic legislation – particularly within the public transport sector.
During the operations, twelve vehicles were impounded in the City of Ekurhuleni for failing to meet essential road safety standards. Furthermore, fifty-two minibuses were discontinued due to serious mechanical defects, while an additional eighty-four vehicles were issued with discontinuation notices.
Amongst the defects identified included faulty brakes, worn tyres, broken headlights, defective brake lights or indicators, and cracked windscreens – all posing significant risks to passenger safety and other road users.
In addition, officers issued infringement notices to non-compliant public transport operators:
- More than 900 manual infringement notices were issued.
- A total of 1,424 electronic infringement notices were processed using the inspectorate’s advanced e-Force devices.
Further violations uncovered during the operations include:
- 185 minibus taxi drivers operating without valid driving licences.
- 80 minibuses found operating without valid licence discs.
Two motorists were arrested on charges of attempted fraud.
Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela has praised the efforts of these dedicated officers for their unwavering commitment to traffic law-enforcement.
“As we approach the busy Easter period, where traffic volumes increase significantly, we will not compromise on law-enforcement. With more boots on the ground, only roadworthy vehicles and law-abiding drivers belong on our public roads. We are resolute in our mission to protect lives and prevent avoidable tragedies during this critical time.”
“We urge motorists to ensure their vehicles are in good condition, to avoid distractions while driving, and comply with speed limits. On the other hand, we also appeal to pedestrians to be observant and visible when using public roads” said the MEC.
These traffic law-enforcement operations are part of collaborative efforts towards #TacklingG13 priorities and remain a key pillar of the province’s road safety and law-enforcement plan.
Through sustained operations, visibility and decisive action, GTI’s efforts will continue to reinforce Provincial Government’s message that lawlessness on Gauteng’s roads will not be tolerated.
For more information, please contact the Department’s Head of Communications Ms Melitah Madiba on 073 644 9935 or MEC’s Spokesperson Mr Lesiba Mpya on 078 450 9841 or email pressoffice.gpdrt@gauteng.gov.za
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