GTI Intensifies Stop-and-Search Operations to Tackle Crime and Lawlessness

The Gauteng Transport Inspectorate (GTI) has escalated its high-impact stop-and-search operations as part of the provincial government’s broader strategy to confront crime, enforce compliance with traffic laws, and clamp down on lawlessness in the transport sector.

Between 8 and 14 September 2025, GTI officers fanned out across the province, conducting rigorous operations targeting public transport operators, private motorists, and commercial vehicles. The goal was not only to curb traffic violations but also to deter criminal conduct that undermines law enforcement.

Scale of Enforcement

According to GTI, the operations resulted in the issuing of over 1,500 infringement notices. This included:

• 700 manual infringement notices issued on the ground.

• 827 electronic infringement notices processed through the GTI e-force gadget, which allows for real-time data capture and improved efficiency.

The clampdown also saw 72 vehicles served with discontinue notices for failing to comply with road safety standards, and one vehicle impounded for consequential violations.

Serious Offences Exposed

While traffic enforcement remained the central focus, officers also uncovered serious criminal offences. Among the arrests were:

• Two motorists for attempting to bribe officers.

• One individual for contravening the Immigration Act.

• One motorist arrested for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) against an officer.

Taxi Violence Incident

The most alarming incident occurred on Friday, 12 September 2025, near the Randburg Taxi Rank in Johannesburg. GTI officers came under attack from a group of taxi drivers.

According to the Inspectorate, a driver affiliated with the Alexandra Taxi Association was identified as the instigator. He was arrested on multiple charges, including inciting violence against officers, organising a mob to block the road, stone-throwing, damage to state property, and the assault of a female officer, which resulted in grievous bodily harm.

The GTI described the attack as a deliberate attempt to intimidate law enforcement officers but underscored that such actions would not derail their mandate.

“These arrests demonstrate the unit's firm stance against intimidation and lawlessness,” the Inspectorate stated.

Part of a Broader Provincial Strategy

The stop-and-search operations form part of the Gauteng Provincial Government’s intensified law enforcement plan aimed at restoring order on the roads and ensuring safer communities. Conducted daily, these interventions are designed to boost police visibility and assure the public that lawlessness will not be tolerated.

The Role of GTI

The Gauteng Transport Inspectorate, with its dedicated team of 96 officers, plays a pivotal role in traffic law enforcement and the fight against transport-related criminality. Its mandate includes:

• Enhancing road safety.

• Monitoring compliance by public transport operators.

• Addressing unroadworthy vehicles.

• Enforcing laws to protect commuters and the public.

Rebuilding Trust and Safety

The GTI’s intensified operations send a clear message that criminality, corruption, and non-compliance will be met with swift action. The Inspectorate has also acknowledged the risks faced by its officers in the line of duty but affirmed that their work is essential in rebuilding trust between law enforcement and communities.

By targeting both traffic violations and more serious offences, the GTI’s campaign is positioning itself as a key force in upholding the rule of law, protecting commuters, and ensuring Gauteng’s roads remain safe and orderly.