Cape Town – Outrage over the reckless transportation of schoolchildren in a trailer has resulted in disciplinary action, with the taxi owner responsible now facing a hefty fine from his own association. The Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (CODETA) has penalised one of its members after a shocking video surfaced showing a trailer packed with children being towed behind a minibus taxi.
The incident, which occurred earlier this month in Wellington, sparked widespread condemnation after images and video footage circulated rapidly on social media. The blatant disregard for safety prompted swift action from both law enforcement officials and CODETA, the organisation to which the driver belo
CODETA spokesman, Makhosandile Tumana, confirmed that the driver, who is also the owner of the vehicle, had been found guilty of violating the association's constitution. "We took him to a disciplinary hearing, and he was found guilty and ordered to pay R10 000," Tumana stated, outlining the outcome of the internal proceedings.
In what appears to be a display of conditional leniency, CODETA has decided to suspend half of the fine, subject to the driver's future conduct. "They, however, asked him to pay R5 000 and suspend the other R5 000, which he must pay if he breaches the constitution again," Tumana explained.
The taxi owner has been instructed to make an immediate payment of R500 towards the initial R5 000, with arrangements in place to settle the remaining balance. CODETA hopes this measure will act as a deterrent, preventing future breaches of the association's rules and regulations.
"As members, we must respect our constitution, and punishing members who breach it will ensure that members know that there are consequences," Tumana emphasised, highlighting the importance of upholding standards within the organisation and ensuring accountability.
Tumana reiterated that CODETA expects its members to conduct themselves in a manner that does not bring the association into disrepute. The transportation of children in a trailer was deemed a serious breach of this expectation, jeopardising the safety of vulnerable passengers and tarnishing the reputation of the association.
The initial arrest of the taxi owner followed swift action by law enforcement officials after the alarming video went viral. Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku expressed his strong condemnation of the driver's actions, describing them as reckless and endangering the lives of innocent children.
He said after seeing the video on social media, traffic cops investigated and tracked the driver.
"It is deeply concerning that any driver would think it's acceptable to transport children in such unsafe conditions," Sileku stated. "Our law enforcement officers acted decisively, and we commend them for ensuring accountability. Scholar transport must always comply with safety regulations to protect the most vulnerable road users, our children."
Sileku further emphasised the importance of operators transporting learners having valid permits under the National Land Transport Act and ensuring their vehicles are roadworthy and legally licensed.
Nceba Enge, CODETA chairman, confirmed the arrest shortly after the incident occurred last month, stating, "We are preparing to bury one of our members. We’ll deal with this issue on Monday." This commitment has now been fulfilled with the imposition of the fine.
The Western Cape Government is urging parents to play an active role in ensuring the safety of their children's transport by verifying that the vehicles used are safe and legal. "We are committed to enforcing road safety laws and protecting all road users — especially young learners travelling to and from school," said Sileku.
A parent, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed their frustration and concern, stating, "When the drivers come to fetch our kids, the vehicle looks empty. We only realise later, through viral videos, that our kids were packed like sardines. These drivers must face punishment."
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