Provincial Ministers lead law enforcement blitz to protect residents in Atlantis

Western Cape Mobility Minister, Isaac Sileku, and the Western Cape Minister of Police Oversight and Community Safety, Anroux Marais, today led a high-visibility enforcement operation in Atlantis. The coordinated intervention, conducted alongside multiple law enforcement agencies, targeted unlicensed and unruly minibus taxi operators through a series of strategic vehicle checkpoints (VCPS) and area patrols.

The operation is focused on ensuring the safety of residents and commuters, following a surge in violence and intimidation within the local taxi industry, which has tragically claimed innocent lives and left several residents, including children, injured.

Since the escalation of these disruptions, Provincial Traffic Services have maintained a sustained and visible presence in Atlantis to stabilise the area, deter further criminality, and safeguard communities.

Operational outcomes

• Total vehicles screened: 63
• Fines issued: Fines issued: 24, totalling R118 000, for various infringements, including defective brake lights, worn tyres and faulty brakes, failure to obey road signs, and non-functional seatbelts.
• Vehicles impounded: 8, for various infringements, including operating without a valid operating licence and failing to produce a valid PrDP (Professional Driving Permit).

“As a government, we remain resolute in addressing the root causes of this violence, particularly the proliferation of unlicensed and unregulated taxi operators. We are working hand-in-hand with law enforcement agencies to identify, isolate and prosecute those responsible for this bloodshed. We will not allow a few rogue operators to intimidate communities, undermine compliant operators, or destablise public transport services. We call on the broader minibus taxi industry to reject and report criminal conduct,” said Minister Sileku.

"Disputes cannot and must not be settled through the barrel of a gun. We urge taxi associations to engage in constructive dialogue to secure a peaceful and lasting resolution. Let me be clear: criminality that endangers the lives of our residents will not be tolerated. Any operator who resorts to violence or lawlessness will face the full might of the law,” added Minister Marais.

Members of the public are urged to prioritise their safety by using only licensed and reputable transport services. Any intimidation or criminal activity should be reported to the authorities immediately. 

The Western Cape Government remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that residents of Atlantis have access to safe, reliable and lawful public transport.

Media Enquiries
Muneera Allie
Head of Communication
Western Cape Mobility Department
Tel: 021 483 9483
Email: Muneera.Allie@westerncape.gov.za