More scofflaws end up behind bars

28 February 2026

In the space of 24 hours this week, Traffic Officers arrested 10 taxi drivers for outstanding warrants totalling just over R632 000. All were taken into custody … a fate that has befallen more than 20 000 other motorists in a seven months period. Read more below:

Four of the arrests were made on the N2 Highway during peak hour patrols and operations.

On Thursday, 26 February, officers arrested a driver with 22 warrants to the value of R90 350.

A second driver was arrested in connection with a hit-and-run incident where he also stole the other driver's keys and drove off. When he was pulled over, officers checked and discovered he had 20 outstanding warrants totalling R68 900.

On Friday, 27 February, officers arrested two more taxi drivers – one with 18 warrants valued at R56 200, and the other with 29 warrants totalling R114 700.

During an integrated operation in Sea Point and surrounds on Friday morning, Traffic Officers arrested six drivers with 123 warrants between them, totalling R301 900.

'These are but a few examples of the thousands of motorists who go about their days, showing scant regard for law and order, but also dodging accountability. And, while many might feel that they get away with their misdeeds, I am enthused to note that the Traffic Service has reported a marked increase in the number of warrant-related arrests since July. So, there are consequences and good luck to those who continue to believe that they are untouchable. To those who might be seeking a reprieve, we are finalising logistics for another traffic fine roadshow in March,' said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.

City-wide, between July 2025 and January 2026, Traffic Officers have executed 52 938 warrants on motorists who have failed to appear in court for unpaid traffic fines.

While some were released on a warning, 20 724 (39%) were taken into custody until their court appearances, compared to just 11% of all warrant executions during the same period the previous year.

During the seven months under review, Traffic Officers have recorded more than 2,2 million offences, made 1 411 general arrests and impounded 5 632 public transport vehicles.

'The data underpins the scale of the lawlessness on our roads – from ALL categories of road users. It also serves as a reminder of why the amendments to our Traffic by-law are so crucial. The process to finalise the updated by-law is nearing completion, and I know that law-abiding residents are deeply frustrated by the total disregard that some minibus taxi drivers have for the rule of law. We need to rein in their bad behaviour, and I'm confident that it will help address some of the more serious transgressions on our roads,' added Alderman Smith.

Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office