CAPE TOWN – A ride-hailing driver was arrested in Parow, Cape Town last week after Metro Police officers discovered he was using a fraudulent licence and possessing equipment capable of producing more fake documents.
Officers were on patrol in Parow on Thursday 12 February at 09:30, when they noticed the driver acting suspiciously and trying to avoid eye contact. During a routine traffic stop, they found his driver’s licence to be fraudulent.
A subsequent vehicle search revealed a device that could be used to manufacture fraudulent licences. The driver was arrested for producing fraudulent documents and detained at the Parow police station for further investigation.
Public transport safety concerns
JP Smith, Mayco member for safety and security, said the arrest highlighted ongoing safety concerns in the public transport sector.
“This is another example of public transport drivers putting the lives of their passengers, other road users and their own at risk. Not only is it a criminal offence to drive without a licence, and is it a safety risk, but it indicates a lack of proven competence,” Smith said.
He noted that officers had recently arrested numerous public transport drivers for various offences, including drunk-driving, unlicenced driving and extreme overloading.
“Reliable public transport is essential for the city’s economic development, and while there are many challenges, incompetent, unfit and unlicenced drivers should not be one of those challenges. Our officers will continue to patrol, check and arrest drivers who put the lives of hundreds at risk,” Smith added.
Weekly enforcement statistics
The previous week’s enforcement operations yielded significant results across multiple departments. Metro Police officers made 114 arrests, of which 21 were for driving under the influence, while Law Enforcement made 183 arrests and issued 11 286 notices.
Traffic Officers recorded 68 arrests, with 58 for driving under the influence of alcohol, eight for reckless or negligent driving and two for other offences. They also recorded 28 865 offences, impounded 170 public transport vehicles and executed 928 warrants of arrest.
Emergency response data
The Public Emergency Communication Centre (PECC) handled 1 277 calls for assistance over the weekend of 6 February to 8 February. Of these calls, 446 were for medical assistance, 57 were assault-related cases, 35 involved domestic violence reports and 37 concerned pedestrian and motor vehicle accidents.
Public advisory
The public is reminded to report emergencies or suspicious and criminal activities by phoning the PECC on 021 480 7700. Callers should provide detailed information, including the time, exact address and a short description to assist enforcement services in responding swiftly.
