The Gauteng Traffic Police has raised concern over incidents involving taxi patrol groups allegedly stopping, threatening and harassing motorists on roads across Gauteng.
The warning follows reports that some motorists are being targeted by taxi monitoring groups who suspect them of transporting passengers illegally.
Authorities say there have been allegations that, in some instances, motorists are forced to pay money before their vehicles are allowed to leave.
Traffic officials have reminded taxi operators that only authorised law enforcement officers have the legal authority to stop and inspect vehicles.
Sello Maremane urged taxi operators to report suspected illegal activities through official law enforcement channels rather than confronting motorists themselves.
“Taxi operators are urged to report suspected unlawful activities to law enforcement authorities rather than taking the law into their own hands,” Maremane said.
“Members of the public are permitted to transport passengers in accordance with the law and should not be subjected to threats, intimidation or harassment by any individual or group.”
Authorities have warned that any acts of intimidation, extortion or unlawful roadblocks could result in criminal charges.