Officers were on patrol in Parow on Thursday, 12 February at 09:30, when they noticed a driver acting suspiciously and trying to avoid looking at them.

The officers performed a traffic stop and found the ride-hailing driver's licence to be fraudulent. While searching the vehicle, they found a device which could be used to produce fraudulent licences.

The driver was arrested for the production of fraudulent documents and was detained at Parow SAPS for further investigation.

‘This is another example of public transport drivers putting the lives of their passengers, other road users and their own at risk. Not only is it a criminal offense to drive without a licence, and is it a safety risk, but it indicates a lack of proven competence.

‘Over the last few weeks, our officers have arrested a number of public transport drivers from those driving drunk, to unlicenced drivers and those guilty of extreme overloading. Reliable public transport is essential for the city’s economic development, and while there are many challenges, incompetent, unfit and unlicenced drivers should not be one of those challenges. Our officers will continue to patrol, check and arrest drivers who put the lives of hundreds at risk,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.

This week Metro Police officers made 114 arrests, of which 21 were for driving under the influence, while their Law Enforcement counterparts made 183 arrests and issued 11 286 notices.

Traffic Officers recorded 68 arrests, of which 58 were for driving under the influence of alcohol, eight for reckless/negligent driving and two for other offences. They also recorded 28 865 offences, impounded 170 public transport vehicles and executed 928 warrants of arrest.
 
The Public Emergency Communication Centre recorded 1 277 calls for assistance this past weekend. Of the calls received, 446 were for medical assistance, 57 were assault related cases, 35 domestic violence reports and 37 pedestrian and motor vehicle accidents.

The public is reminded to report emergencies or any suspicious and/or criminal activities by phoning the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700.

It’s important that the caller provide detailed information, such as the time, exact address and a short description. This will assist enforcement services to respond swiftly.