City Traffic Officers clamp down on reckless and negligent driving

City Traffic Services increased its presence on the N2 this week following several reports of recurring traffic infractions, mainly by minibus taxi drivers. The following successes were recorded:

City of Cape Town Traffic Services’ Highway Ghost Squad conducted a series of operations along the N2 this week. These operations stemmed from a number of complaints that minibus taxis in particular were driving recklessly and without regard for other motorists in the area. Officers arrested a total of 14 suspects.

On Thursday 13 June 2013, three minibus taxi drivers were arrested at Raapenberg Road for reckless and negligent driving. One of the minibus taxis was carrying 20 passengers instead of the regulated 14; one minibus taxi driver had warrants of arrest outstanding; and the last driver had no public transport permit.

Officers arrested three minibus taxi drivers on charges of reckless and negligent driving on Wednesday 12 June 2013. All three drivers had warrants of arrest outstanding, and all three minibus taxis were overloaded.

On Tuesday 11 June 2013, four minibus taxi drivers were arrested for reckless and negligent driving, also at Raapenberg Road. All four drivers had warrants of arrest outstanding and, once again, all four minibus taxis were overloaded. One of the drivers arrested was transporting learners from a local girls school and had no public transport permit.

Officers arrested four minibus taxi drivers on Monday 10 June 2013. All of the drivers had warrants of arrests outstanding, and had been found to be in contempt of court. Once again, all minibus taxis were overloaded.

“These arrests can be viewed as a serious victory against recklessness and lawlessness on our roads. The operation is evidence of the fact that we take action when complaints are received,” said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman J.P. Smith.

“All drivers should consider this a warning. As part of our aim to create a Safe City, we must ensure that no leniency is shown to anyone who overloads their vehicle and drives in such a manner that puts the lives of their passengers in danger.” 

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