Some taxi associations alongside operators in Bloemfontein have called on the Free State Department of Roads and Transport to suspend some e-hailing services until they are issued with valid permits.

Rainbow Meter Taxi Association say some e-hailing services are not registered with recognized drivers, which increases chances of human trafficking and other crimes. This came out during the reading of the memorandum.

The taxi associations marched to the Department of Roads and Transport offices in Bloemfontein to hand over their memorandum of demands.

The Association’s rank manager, Teboho Pitso added that some officials, including police and traffic officers, are involved in illegal e-hailing and taxi operations.

Pitso says they want the department to do its job and stop operations of those without permits.

Pitso elaborates, “Ensure protection of licensed meter cab drivers and ensure that protection of commuter from harassment and intimidation. To traffic department, investigate and monitor traffic officers participating or supporting unlicensed e-hailing services. Continue impounding unlicensed e-hailing vehicles and enforce strict penalties and implement tougher measures, including immediate penalties for non-compliance.”