More than R300 000 in fines were issued while four taxis were impounded during a joint police operation in Kommetjie Road on Thursday 21 July.
Ocean View police spokesperson Sgt Mfundo Nyengane said police officers held a roadblock operation with their traffic counterparts.
“On Thursday 21 July, Ocean View police with the assistance of traffic officers mounted a roadblock operation in Kommetjie Road adjacent to the Sasol fuel station where all vehicles were stopped and searched.
“Four taxis were impounded and the fines altogether amounted to close to R302 000.”
He added that police received four unofficial complaints regarding intimidation received against the Masiphumelele Taxi Association.
According to Fish Hoek Community Policing Forum Chair Jonathan Mills, there had been an increase in complaints of intimidation by members of the local taxi association.
“Following an increase in complaints of intimidation and extortion of staff transport vehicles by members of the Masiphumelele Taxi Association, the Transport Enforcement Unit together with Ocean View police conducted a joint operation last Thursday.”
A total of 325 cases were issued for various offences.
Nine taxis were impounded for operating without public transport permit or operating contrary to the conditions of the operating license, and one arrest was made for a fraudulent document.
“The taxi association does not have a monopoly on travel in Masiphumelele. Transport is a vital part of community life and this kind of behaviour not only victimises innocent people but also puts local jobs and businesses at risk.
“The CPF encourages members of the public and business owners who are victims of this type of criminal behaviour to make formal reports of incidents to police or local councillors,” said Mills.
