#OperationSkorokoro targets unlicensed drivers, unroadworthy taxis in Gauteng

The Gauteng Transport Inspectorate (GTI), working with the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) and other law-enforcement agencies, has intensified #OperationSkorokoro enforcement operations targeting unlicensed drivers, unroadworthy taxis and non-compliant public transport operators across the province.

Between 14 and 20 September 2026, officers conducted high-impact stop-and-search operations along major public transport corridors, focusing on roadworthiness, valid documentation and driver and regulatory compliance.

The operations found 70 minibus taxis operating without valid licence discs, while 104 drivers were found operating without valid driving licences.

A further 69 minibuses were discontinued after being declared unroadworthy, while 19 minibus taxis were impounded for failing to meet minimum road-safety standards.

Officials identified safety defects including faulty braking systems, worn tyres, non-functional headlights and brake lights, defective indicators and other mechanical problems.

GTI officers issued 850 handwritten AARTO infringement notices across Gauteng, comprising 151 in Tshwane, 86 in Mogale City, 163 in Ekurhuleni, 324 in Johannesburg and 121 in Sedibeng.

A further 646 electronic infringement notices were processed through e-Force devices. These included 104 in Tshwane, 165 in Mogale City, 126 in Johannesburg, 159 in Ekurhuleni and 92 in Sedibeng.

The operations also resulted in 75 discontinuation notices being issued, including 42 in Mogale City, 24 in Johannesburg, five in Ekurhuleni, three in Tshwane and one in Sedibeng.

Five arrests were made, including three for alleged bribery and two for contraventions of the Immigration Act.

Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela said removing unroadworthy vehicles from the roads was necessary to protect commuters and other road users.

“The discontinuation and impoundment of unroadworthy vehicles is not merely an enforcement measure; we see it as a necessary intervention to protect the lives of commuters and all road users,” she said.

Diale-Tlabela warned that the department would not tolerate drivers operating without valid licences or taxis operating without valid licence discs.

She said engagements with the minibus taxi industry would continue, while enforcement operations would be sustained to remove non-compliant drivers and vehicles from Gauteng roads.