​By Botho Male 
The Department's Public Transport
Inspectorate Unit (PTIU) impounded 21
vehicles on 24 October 2023 in
Randburg, Johannesburg. The vehicles,
which operated without valid operating
licences, were used to provide e-hailing
services and are registered to Bolt and
Uber. 
The National Land Traffic Act 5 (2009, section 54 and
62) requires that a public transport operator be in
possession of a valid operating licence, thus allowing
them to transport commuters for a fee using South
African roads.
Of the 21 vehicles, 11 were Bajaj Qute models.
These are classified as compact quadricycles
and are often used for intra-city or last mile
transportation as a lower-cost ride option. The
vehicles were escorted to an impound facility in
Benoni. The drivers were charged with operating
without a valid operating licence. The release of
the vehicles is subject to the payment of pound
fees and submission of supporting
documentation. 
In combating crime and lawlessness, the PTIU
carries out such interventions throughout the
province. This is to ensure effective law
enforcement and improved visibility in the public
transport sector.