Cape Town plans broader vehicle impound crackdown after officials revealed that 2700 minibus taxis were impounded between October and December last year, reports Cape {town} Etc.
The figures come as the City moves to strengthen its Traffic By-law to tackle dangerous driving across the metro.
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Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security JP Smith said enforcement teams continue to face daily challenges on major routes, including along the N2 between the Civic Centre and Liesbeek Parkway.
Smith said current legislation limits officers largely to issuing fines for many offences.
‘Between October and December last year we impounded 2 700 minibus taxis,’ he said during a recent patrol with the Ghost Squad. ‘Issuing fines we know is completely ineffectual, which is why the traffic by-law is imminent.’
He added that once amended, the by-law will allow officers to impound any vehicle that endangers other road users, not only minibus taxis.
‘It will soon be law enabling us to proceed with impoundments so that there are meaningful consequences for offenders on our roads,’ Smith said.
According to the City of Cape Town, the proposed amendments are currently before the Portfolio Committee and are expected to be finalised by the end of next month.
Smith urged all motorists to obey traffic rules. ‘We all need to get somewhere. We can do this faster and safer if we all stay in our lane,’ he said.
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Picture: JP Smith / Facebook
