MEC Duma orders investigation into Pietermaritzburg minibus roadworthy certificate scam

The KwaZulu Natal transport department is investigating the roadworthy certificate issued to a minibus transporting learners in the province.

Transport MEC Siboniso Duma said the vehicle from Pietermaritzburg was issued a roadworthy certificate in the Eastern Cape despite it not meeting requirements

A certificate of fitness (COF) inspection on January 13th this year failed to identify any major issues, raising questions about how the vehicle's condition weakened so quickly within just 26 days.

It's also understood that the scholar transport vehicle has been transporting 23 learners, seven more than the legal limit of 16.

Spokesperson, Ndabezinhle Sibiya said the investigation will focus on identifying who granted the operating permit and conduct due diligence.

"Last year, we announced our focus on strengthening legislation governing the taxi and scholar transport industry, with clear provisions on driver vetting, vehicle standards, and operational oversight. The road traffic inspectorate and Operation Shanela are currently enforcing stricter compliance across all corners of the province," said Sibiya.