Tshwane Police Impounds Wanatu Taxis: A Stir In The City

Holifil
  • The Tshwane Metro Police Department seized three vehicles from Wanatu, a service catering exclusively to Afrikaans speakers.
  • Tshwane Mayor Dr. Nasiphi Moya revealed on X that the drivers lacked necessary permits.
  • Social media reactions ranged from amusement to applause for the Tshwane Metro Police Department's decisive action.

Contributing writer Tebogo Mokwena, a seasoned journalist with seven years of experience at Daily Sun and Vutivi Business News, has covered a wide range of topics including health, corruption, education, unemployment, labor disputes, service delivery protests, and immigration issues in South Africa for Briefly News.

South Africans cheered TMPD's decision to impound three Wanatu taxis. Images: @nasiphim/X and 10'000 Hours/ Getty Images Source: UGC

Tshwane — In a move that sent ripples through the city, the Tshwane Metro Police Department recently impounded three vehicles belonging to Wanatu, an Afrikaans-only e-hailing service that made headlines after its launch in the city. The impoundment sparked mixed reactions from South Africans, with many expressing approval of the authorities' actions.

Why Were the Wanatu Vehicles Seized?

According to Tshwane Mayor Dr. Nasiphi Moya, who has been leading the city's "Reclaim Our City" campaign, the Wanatu vehicles were operating without the required permits. Reporting from TimesLIVE indicates that Tlangi Mogale, the Member of the Mayoral Committee for Transport, confirmed that Wanatu's legal representative failed to secure the release of the vehicles. Furthermore, Mogale stated that the company is currently under investigation by the SA Human Rights Commission due to its hiring practices, which prioritize Afrikaans-speaking drivers. Moya shared this development on her X account, where it quickly gained traction.

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  • Tshwane Mayor Nasiphi Moya announced the impoundment of Wanatu taxis. Image: Frennie Shivambu/Gallo Images via Getty Images Source: Getty Images

    Take a look at Mayor Moya's X post here:

    What Are South Africans Saying?

    The impoundment of Wanatu vehicles sparked a lively conversation on social media, with many South Africans voicing their opinions.

    Tsogang Vukani Amkeni remarked:

    "We see your work."

    Sbusiso Nkabinde added:

    "In today's South Africa, the law applies to everyone, no matter their background. Upholding the law is crucial for building a fair and peaceful society."

    Oracle chimed in:

    "Don't issue permits to them since they started operating illegally in the first place."

    Megan S questioned:

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  • "When are you going to impound the reckless minibus taxis too? They're driving like maniacs and putting lives at risk."

    Ayanda Allie, the Gauteng Provincial Legislature member, commented:

    "Thank you, Mayor! Please ensure your MMC stays informed about the facts moving forward. I anticipate potential legal action soon. Stay prepared. We'll be in touch."

    TMPD's Broader Efforts: Taxis and Motorbikes Impounded

    In another development, Briefly News reported that the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) impounded eight taxis and 18 motorbikes during Operation Reclaim Our City in January. These vehicles were found to violate the city's bylaws.

    TMPD officials stated that the previous day, they had impounded a total of 92 vehicles and issued fines amounting to R48,500. Many South Africans praised the city's commitment to cleaning up Tshwane, appreciating the efforts to maintain law and order in the bustling metropolitan area.

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