A 40-year-old taxi driver from Rustenburg Local Municipality has been placed on suspension
following allegations of improper conduct, including the use of vulgar language and the
forcible removal of two matric learners from a vehicle.
A dispute between a driver and two matric learners from HF Tlou Secondary School who were
allegedly assaulted over unpaid taxi fares happened on Saturday.
The pair were travelling with other commuters from Rustenburg Taxi Rank to Tlhabane on
route to attend weekend classes at Meridian College.
Narrating the interim verdict pending conclusion of the probe as a turning point for customer
care, accountability and safer public transport, the Moral Regeneration Movement (MRM) in
the North West on Thursday, 05 February 2026 applauded the suspension of a Rustenburg taxi
driver.
Convenor of the MRM Provincial Committee, Pastor Lesiba Kgwele commented SANTACO
and the Taxi Negotiating Forum (TNF) 9 Company Board of Directors on the Rustenburg Bus
Rapid Transport (BRT) for the swift investigation, objective consideration of all facts including
a video recording of the incident.
“We are encouraged by the effective complaints mechanism, verification processes, objective
gathering of evidence that was followed during the disciplinary proceedings that unfolded
suggesting that professionalism and the commitment to uphold courteous as well as highest
standard of customer service is being taken serious by the organized taxi industry,” highlighted
Kgwele.
Kgwele said further steps that might be instituted at the conclusion of the comprehensive probe
will send an unequivocal message that supports zero tolerance to violence and abuse of
passengers by taxi drivers.
“This will rid the taxi industry of negative perception of rude and unprofessional conduct that
created the impression that unruly drivers are a law unto themselves,” emphasised Kgwele.
Kgwele advised passengers to also conduct themselves in an appropriate and non-provocative
manner, cooperate with drivers and respect their fellow commuters, he underscored.
He further expressed appreciation to Meridian College for the support that it gave to the
traumatized learners who have subsequently laid charges of assault against the driver with the
police.
“We are hopeful that the second phase of the probe that include interviews with the affected
learners and their parents which will bring the matter to its logical conclusion,” he stressed.
