The Western Cape Provincial Regulatory Entity (PRE) will hold a second round of hearings to consider the possible cancellation of up to 26 taxi operating licences in George. The action follows violent protests in the town on 19 August 2015 by members of Uncedo George Taxi Association. The protest actions included the barricading of roads and burning of vehicles.
Various government agencies are currently engaged in investigations of the violence and traffic disruption using CCTV footage and other evidence. Members of the public have been requested to make available videos and photographs of the protest to help identify offenders.
The Department of Transport and Public Works is responsible for the regulation of public transport services in the Western Cape, among other things. All public transport operators are required to ensure a safe and dignified environment for commuters. Any form of violence is strongly condemned and compliance with legal prescripts and operating licence conditions is not negotiable.
Operators who are found guilty of inciting violence or wilfully damaging property run the risk of having their operating licences cancelled. Registered operators who are not considered fit and proper to provide public transport services run the risk of having their registration certificates cancelled. The inquiry will take place during the first week of October 2015 in George.
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