CAPE TOWN – Efforts are currently underway to track down a taxi driver involved in a reckless and negligent driving incident that endangered the public and law enforcement officers on Koeberg Road in Milnerton on Sunday 7 December.
According to reports, a traffic officer attempted to stop the taxi for a routine check, but the driver sped off, heading towards the N1 highway.
During the ensuing chase, the driver collided with two traffic patrol vehicles on the N7 near Potsdam Road.
In a desperate attempt to evade arrest, the driver abandoned the vehicle and fled the scene, leaving behind eight passengers who suffered minor injuries. Four traffic officers also sustained slight injuries during the collision.
Dangerous behaviour
The City has condemned the driver’s dangerous behaviour.
“This kind of disregard for law and order puts the lives of innocent commuters and our officers at risk, and will not be tolerated,” said JP Smith, Mayco member for safety and security.
“We are fully committed to apprehending the driver and ensuring that justice is served.”
The taxi has been impounded and will remain so until the driver is found and brought to justice.
Authorities have already identified and tracked down the vehicle’s registered owner and continue to work tirelessly to locate the suspect.
Reckless driving
The incident comes amid growing community concerns about reckless taxi driving in the area.
During recent Community Policing Forum (CPF) meetings, members repeatedly raised alarms over taxis speeding and driving negligently along Koeberg Road.
The CPF has called for an increased presence of traffic officers to curb these dangerous behaviours and improve road safety.
Smith echoed these calls: “We hear the community’s concerns loud and clear. Increasing traffic enforcement along Koeberg Road is a priority. We will be deploying more officers to the area to ensure that reckless drivers face consequences and the public can travel safely.”
Residents and commuters are urged to report any suspicious or dangerous driving behaviour to the City’s Traffic Department immediately.
