The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport says it remains committed to ensuring accountability in cases involving violence, threats and intimidation on the province's roads.
The department was responding to an incident in which three security guards, allegedly linked to a local taxi association, are accused of assaulting an e-hailing driver and his passengers.
The trio appeared in the Pinetown Magistrate's Court on Friday, where they were denied bail. During the proceedings, the court heard allegations that the driver and the women who were travelling with him were threatened following the incident.
Department spokesperson Ndabezinhle Sibiya said it also emerged in court that the owner of the security company allegedly threatened the e-hailing driver and instructed him to withdraw the case.
Sibiya said KwaZulu-Natal Transport MEC has supported calls to explore the possibility of laying additional charges against the accused.
"The MEC has supported any decision of exploring the possibility of adding more charges against the three security guards," Sibiya said.
He added that the MEC has urged the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) to take a firm stance on the matter.
"The MEC has called on PSIRA not to be silent when the whole country is showing public disapproval of the acts of the security guards and the security company," he said.
Sibiya said the department is also appealing to residents and commuters to support initiatives aimed at promoting peace and stability within the public transport sector.
Earlier this month, the department revealed that a second e-hailing driver had come forward with allegations of intimidation involving the same three suspects.
Investigations are also under way into claims by community members that two of the accused may have been out on parole at the time of the incident, raising concerns over possible parole violations.
"Importantly, as the department we are in touch with the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, the Department of Correctional Services, SAPS and Durban Metro Police to ensure that no stone is left unturned," Sibiya said.
"We reiterate our position that we will never turn a blind eye when such cases are reported to us."
The department says it will continue working with law enforcement agencies to ensure that all allegations are thoroughly investigated and that those responsible are held accountable.