During a joint operation with Mobility MEC Ricardo Mackenzie and the City’s traffic services in Mitchells Plain, a 16-year-old was caught driving a Toyota Condor. The vehicle was carrying 16 pupils, with four of them squeezed into the car’s boot.
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The authorities had pulled the vehicle off the road as part of their efforts to enforce safety regulations for pupil transport, which has been an ongoing crisis.
It was revealed that his father had given him permission to transport the pupils that day. As a result, the father was arrested on four charges related to endangering the lives of minors, as reported by IOL.
During this operation, eight vehicles transporting pupils were seized in Mitchells Plain, including an incident involving 28 pupils crammed inside a single taxi on their way home from school.
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Safety and security Mayco member JP Smith said, ‘Hearing the complaints of some of the teachers outside the school confirms it. Complaints of reckless driving behaviour, jeopardising learner safety, vehicles that are dangerously unsafe, and more.
‘To parents: make sure you are using a registered Scholar Transport service. Ask to see their permit as well as their driver’s PrDP. Send them this link and ask them to respond to you. Nothing can be worth more than the value of your child’s life.’
Denver van Aarde, Chairperson of the Western Cape Schools Board, expressed concerns about the scholar transport industry, considering it a dangerous place for children.
He emphasised that overloading while transporting kids is not acceptable. Instead, drivers should make multiple trips or find other safe methods to ensure the safety of the children.
As an association, they are actively working to ensure their drivers comply with the law. However, the issue arises with those who operate without permits, making it challenging for them to account for everyone involved.
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Picture: Screenshot of Video – JP Smith / Facebook