Pretoria:Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, has announced a crackdown on unsafe public transport vehicles through intensified stop-and-search operations by the Gauteng Transport Inspectorate (GTI). This initiative underscores the province's determination to enhance road safety by holding non-compliant drivers and operators accountable.

According to South African Government News Agency, these operations are conducted in collaboration with the Road Traffic Management Corporation and other law-enforcement agencies. The focus is on high-risk public transport corridors, ensuring vehicle roadworthiness, valid documentation, and adherence to driver and operator regulations.

The stop-and-search and high-impact operations form part of the #RemoveSkorokoro campaign, which aims to strengthen road safety and regulatory compliance across Gauteng.

The operations, which took place between November 1 and 8, 2026, resulted in the identification of 57 minibus taxis operating without licence discs and 63 drivers lacking valid driving licences. Additionally, 21 taxis deemed unroadworthy were discontinued due to defects like faulty brakes, worn tyres, and broken lights. Sixteen more vehicles were impounded during these efforts.

To bolster accountability, GTI officers issued 727 handwritten AARTO infringement notices across the province, with significant numbers in Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg, Tshwane, and Sedibeng. Moreover, 874 electronic infringement notices were processed, reflecting a concerted effort to enhance enforcement visibility.

The operations also led to the issuance of 47 discontinuation notices and five arrests, including four for driving under the influence and one for attempted bribery. The department emphasizes continued collaboration with law-enforcement agencies and public transport operators to improve compliance and promote safety within the minibus taxi industry.