Taxi drivers were arrested for overloading children who were going to school last week.
According to DailySun, Two taximen were bust in East London, Eastern Cape on Thursday, 6 March after they were caught transporting pupils from various schools in overloaded taxis.
The drivers were arrested on the spot and the taxis were impounded and tested for roadworthiness.
Buffalo City Metro spokesman Samkelo Ngwenya said a roadblock operation on the R102/Nahoon Dam prosecuted five vehicles, with one taxi having 26 passengers and a driver.
“A docket was opened by senior traffic officer Welile Zweni at the NU1 Police Station in Mdantsane,” he said.
Ngwenya said four other Quantams were prosecuted for overloading at the same R102 route, with one having 26 passengers.
“A case has been opened. This means that in one day, nine taxis have been caught overloaded. The metro advises parents who opt to have their kids commute via public transport instead of private contracts to be hands on,” said Ngwenya.
Ngwenya commended the officers for being vigilant, saying their actions saved lives.
“One can only imagine what happens to children who are packed like sardines during an accident. It is extremely risky and reckless to overload like that.
“We suspect that parents are not aware that their kids are being crammed in such a manner because no parent would allow their child’s safety to be compromised that way. But such ignorance is not an excuse. Parents must take responsibility,” said Ngwenya.
Buffalo City Metro traffic commander Quinton Chetty issued a warning to those who are overloading that they will face the full might of the law.
“Overloading is not only illegal, but it also puts lives at risk. The excess weight can negatively impact the vehicle’s ability to brake and can result in added strain on the car suspension and tyres which can cause accidents,” said Chetty.
Police spokeswoman Lieutenant-Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa said two separate cases were opened at Mdantsane cop shop on Thursday. Both suspects were released with warnings and will appear in court on Monday, 10 March.
