Metro Police apprehend e-hailing driver with fake licence in Parow

A ride-hailing driver was arrested in Parow after Metro Police officers discovered what the City of Cape Town described as a fraudulent driver’s licence and a device allegedly capable of producing similar documents.

The arrest forms part of broader enforcement operations that resulted in 365 suspects being apprehended by the City’s enforcement departments over the past week.

According to the City, officers were on patrol in Parow at about 9:30am last Thursday, February 12 when they noticed a motorist behaving suspiciously and attempting to avoid eye contact.

Officers conducted a traffic stop and, during an inspection, determined that the driver’s licence was fraudulent, the City said.

A subsequent search of the vehicle allegedly uncovered a device which, according to the City, could be used to produce fraudulent licences.

The driver was arrested on a charge relating to the production of fraudulent documents and was detained at Parow SAPS for further investigation. The matter remains under investigation and no court appearance details were immediately available.

Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, said the arrest highlighted ongoing concerns around public transport compliance.

“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 Smith.

The City’s enforcement statistics for the week reflect continued compliance operations across departments.

Metro Police made 114 arrests, including 21 for driving under the influence.

Law Enforcement officers made 183 arrests and issued 11 286 notices.

Traffic officers recorded 68 arrests — 58 for driving under the influence of alcohol, eight for reckless or negligent driving and two for other offences. They recorded 28 865 traffic offences, impounded 170 public transport vehicles and executed 928 warrants of arrest.

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