More than 100 unroadworthy minibus taxis have been removed from Gauteng roads following an intensive week-long enforcement operation targeting unsafe public transport vehicles and non-compliant operators across the province.
The operation, carried out between 1 and 7 February 2026, was led by the Gauteng Transport Inspectorate (GTI) working alongside the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC). Authorities focused on key public and scholar transport routes across Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni and Tshwane, where thousands of commuters rely on minibus taxis daily.
Dangerous Defects Put Commuters at Risk
Officials say inspections uncovered serious mechanical faults that posed immediate danger to passengers and other road users. Among the most common defects found were faulty braking systems, worn tyres, broken lights and cracked windscreens — all violations of basic road safety standards. Media Statement –
Transport authorities say the removals were necessary to prevent potential crashes and to send a strong message to operators who ignore safety regulations.
Hundreds of Violations Issued
The operation also uncovered widespread non-compliance within the industry. Enforcement teams issued more than 500 manual infringement notices and processed a further 667 electronic fines using advanced e-Force enforcement technology. In addition, 151 discontinue notices were issued to motorists found operating illegally. Media Statement – Gauteng enfor…
Investigations revealed:
- 108 taxi operators were driving without valid licences
- 52 minibuses were operating without valid licence discs
Criminal Offences Also Targeted
Beyond traffic violations, law enforcement officers arrested 11 individuals for driving under the influence, highlighting ongoing concerns about reckless and dangerous driving behaviour in public transport operations.
Government: “Safety Comes First”
Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela said the province will continue to take a hard stance against unsafe vehicles and non-compliant operators.
She stressed that removing unroadworthy vehicles is critical to reducing road crashes, injuries and fatalities, especially among scholar and public transport commuters. Authorities confirmed that enforcement operations will continue across the province as part of the #Tackling13 programme, which targets high-impact safety and crime challenges.
Ongoing Enforcement Expected
The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport says more roadblocks, inspections and compliance operations are planned in the coming months. Transport operators have been urged to ensure vehicles meet roadworthiness standards and that all licensing and regulatory requirements are followed.
For many Gauteng commuters, the crackdown signals stronger efforts by government to improve road safety and restore confidence in public transport systems.
