MEC calls for action against illegal roadblocks by taxis in EC

Eastern Cape Department of Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha has called for action against illegal roadblocks and extortion on Eastern Cape roads.

MEC THREATENS ACTION AGAINST ILLEGAL ROADBLOCKS

MEC Nqatha’s call comes as illegal roadblocks, allegedly manned by taxi operators continue to be a headache for a lot of long-distance drivers across the province.

Nqatha has warned that those who continue to be involved in these illegal roadblocks, will face the might of the law.

“We cannot allow a situation where we have an illegal law enforcement structure that runs parallel to what our government seeks to achieve, tormenting and extorting money from our people.”

MEC Nqatha

ALSO READ: Bogus Zimbabwean taxi association patrollers finally arrested

NQATHA HEEDS THE CRIES FROM MOTORISTS

He added: “The public outcry about these illegal roadblocks has been heard, and the additional crime of extortion that is often at the core of these, has been taken in. It is for that reason that I call on all state law enforcement agencies to take tough action against these illegal roadblocks on the province’s roads”.

It is reported that taxi operators stand at strategic routes, armed with weapons, and empty any vehicle, especially seven-seaters ferrying people as they believe those commuters should be travelling by taxi. In some instances, this action can lead to extortion or serious threat to life.

TAXI BOSSES CHALLENGED TO INTERVENE

Nqatha has also challenged taxi industry bosses to also take a stand against these illegal acts that are said to be carried out by their members. He warned that the few individuals involved in these may dent the image of the entire taxi industry.

• ALSO READ: Cele to hold talks with taxi industry over gun violence
• ALSO READ: Taxi industry groans about issues affecting the sector

However, Nqatha was told to do himself a favour and look within the structures of law enforcement if he is serious about putting an end to illegal roadblocks.

Antoinette Shevach Lansdell said: “You live in a dreamworld dude and you’re not even the main character. Most of the taxi bosses are police officers. The very people you expect to stop this are the people that are implementing it. Honestly…get the correct info and then form a plan of action accordingly”.

Max Ngqeza said: “Police and traffic officers are at the core of the corruption chain and are benefiting heavily so you will never be able to address this matter effectively”.