In recent reports, motorists have raised concerns over alleged harassment and extortion by taxi patrollers or security personnel affiliated with various taxi associations across South Africa. These patrollers reportedly coerce drivers into paying arbitrary "fines" under threat, a practice that is considered illegal and constitutes financial extortion. In some instances, patrollers have allegedly gone further, confiscating vehicle keys and holding motorists "hostage" until payments are made.
This criminal behavior has sparked outrage among the public and drawn attention from the South African Police Service (SAPS), which is now taking steps to address the issue. The National Commissioner of SAPS, General SF Masemola, has emphasized the need for a strict, zero-tolerance response to these unlawful acts. The Commissioner has instructed all Provincial Commissioners to act decisively and enforce the law against these extortion practices to safeguard motorists and uphold the state’s authority.
In KZN, taxi owners have gone as far as hiring security firms to confront or harm motorists who offer rides to passengers. This raises the question: who is authorized to enforce road regulations and stop road users other than traffic officers?
— ¶ Sñēpto4 - NZIMANDE (@Snepto6074) October 30, 2024
The SAPS urges any motorists who experience such harassment or coercion to report these incidents immediately and press criminal charges against the offending individuals.
“We are fully committed to protecting the rights of all citizens and stamping out any criminal activities that seek to infringe upon these rights,” General Masemola stated. “This zero-tolerance approach should reassure the public that the SAPS is serious about addressing and preventing such acts of intimidation and extortion.”
[TAXI VIOLENCE TASK TEAMS]
— Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (@RSA_JCPS) October 30, 2024
The @SAPoliceService established Taxi Violence Task Teams and Taxi Violence Investigation Units, across all provinces, which specialises in all taxi related crimes.
Law enforcement agencies are constitutionally mandated to prevent and combat crime.… pic.twitter.com/sD383yQKgR
The SAPS has further emphasized that criminal charges will be pursued to ensure justice and hold responsible parties accountable. Motorists are encouraged to document these encounters when safe and report any form of financial extortion, intimidation, or harassment to the police.
The move aims to dismantle any unlawful practices by taxi patrollers that put ordinary drivers at risk, disrupt the flow of traffic, and sow fear in the public. For support, motorists can contact the SAPS emergency hotline and local stations across provinces.
What to Do if You Are a Victim:
- Document the Incident: Record details, including the time, location, and any information on the perpetrators.
- Report Immediately: File a complaint at the nearest police station, or contact SAPS on their emergency hotline.
- Press Criminal Charges: Victims are encouraged to file criminal charges to ensure a formal legal response.
With the SAPS committed to action, motorists are assured that this crackdown on taxi association-related criminality will help restore a sense of safety and order on South African roads.
