Gauteng authorities intensified learner transport enforcement operations across Soweto and Soshanguve, sending a strong message to operators who put children’s lives at risk on the roads.
Led by the Gauteng Department of Community Safety, the operation saw Head of Department Mr Roche Mogorosi working alongside Gauteng Traffic Police, the South African Police Service and the Tshwane Metro Police Department to clamp down on non-compliance among learner transport operators.
The early-morning blitz focused on ensuring roadworthiness, legal compliance and the overall safety of learners travelling to and from school. Officials adopted a zero-tolerance approach, particularly towards violations such as overloading and the use of unroadworthy vehicles.
It is said that by midday, nearly 150 learner transport vehicles had been stopped and inspected. Authorities issued 31 fines for overloading, while six vehicles were immediately discontinued from service after being declared unroadworthy.
Officials say the operation forms part of the government’s broader commitment to safeguarding learners, who are among the most vulnerable road users. Parents and school communities have been urged to only use registered and compliant learner transport services, while enforcement teams warned that similar operations will continue across Gauteng.
The department reiterated that road safety remains a shared responsibility and that strict action will be taken against operators who compromise the well-being of children for profit.
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