The Nelson Mandela Bay’s traffic and licensing director, Warren Prins, has been suspended by the Metro, allegedly for misconduct.
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality spokesperson Sithembiso Soyaya confirmed that Prins has been placed on precautionary suspension.
When asked about the matter, Soyaya said that this step taken by the Metro “ensures that the internal investigation proceeds independently and without any interference,” which is in line with the Metro’s commitment to “clean, ethical and accountable governance.”
As this matter is currently under investigation, he added that certain elements may involve external law-enforcement agencies, while noting that “the Municipality is not in a position to discuss the specifics of the matter at this stage.”
“We must respect due process and avoid any comments that could prejudice ongoing proceedings,” Soyaya added.
He assured the public, however, that this administration takes allegations of wrongdoing seriously as they “act firmly within the law,” following the evidence, while prioritising the integrity of their institutions.
“The Municipality remains committed to transparency, consequence management and strengthening public trust,” he concluded.
Sharing his statement with PE Express, Prins said he acknowledges the municipality’s decision to place him on precautionary suspension. “I respect the established procedures and will cooperate fully with the internal processes currently under way. In the interest of fairness and to safeguard the integrity of the investigation, I will not be commenting on the details at this time.”
Prins added that throughout his tenure, he has been committed to strengthening the efficiency and professionalism of the traffic and licensing services in the Metro. “Under my leadership since 2016, the department has introduced a number of improvements, including the reduction of queues at service centres, the establishment of the Motherwell Traffic and Licensing Centre, the introduction of card payment systems, and the expansion of operational capacity across the metro.”
When asked about how confident he is that the internal investigation will reach a right and just outcome, Prins said, “I remain confident that, as the facts are thoroughly and fairly examined, my name will be cleared,” adding that he respectfully requests space for the formal processes to run their course.
