KZN cracks down on ‘dodgy licences’ with blacklist and asset seizures

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport is turning up the heat on fraudsters, launching a sweeping crackdown that could see illegally obtained driver’s licences cancelled and offenders blacklisted along with driving schools involved. At the centre of the clean-up is MEC Siboniso Duma, who has revived the Transport and Traffic Inspectorate Unit (TTIU) as part of Operation Shanela as a focused drive to root out corruption at Driver’s Licence Testing Centres. In a recent question-and-answer statement, the department revealed it has begun blacklisting individuals who obtained their learner’s and driver’s licences through fraudulent means.

Driving schools linked to corruption syndicates are also in the firing line. The department said they are closing in on a well-organised network, with recordings and video evidence already identifying more than 11 members. At least one suspect has already pleaded guilty.

The TTIU, working alongside the Road Traffic Inspectorate, has teamed up with the Road Traffic Management Corporation’s Anti-Corruption Unit, the Hawks, the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and the Asset Forfeiture Unit to dismantle the syndicates completely. “Bank accounts, houses, cars, fridges, braai stands, cooler boxes and any assets linked to bribery, corruption and fraud involving learner’s licences will be seized,” the department said. With investigations intensifying, the province’s transport department is sending a strong warning to those continuing to take the easy way by paying bribes to obtain either their learner’s licence or driver’s licence.