EASTERN Cape Transport MEC, Xolile Nqatha, has called on law enforcement agencies to act against those who continue to impersonate traffic officers, holding illegal roadblocks characterised, in some instances, by extortion.
According to the statement issued by Unathi Binqose, spokesperson for the Department of Transport, Nqatha’s call comes as illegal roadblocks allegedly manned by taxi operators, continue to be a headache for many long-distance drivers across the province.
Those who continue to be involved in these illegal roadblocks have been warned that they might face the law.
Nqatha said this is something that he had spoken strongly against since taking office, a situation where they have an illegal law enforcement structure running parallel to government aims, and tormenting and extorting people cannot be allowed.
He added that the public outcry about these illegal roadblocks and the additional crime of extortion often at the core, have been heard.
“It is for that reason that I call on all state law enforcement agencies to take tough action against these illegal roadblocks in the province,” said Nqatha.
He has also challenged leaders in the taxi industry to take a stand against these illegal acts, said to be carried out by their members, as these individuals’ actions have somewhat dented the image of this industry.
– ISSUED BY DOT
