Operators demand action on permit backlog as metro police seize vehicles over licensing issues.

Gauteng e-hailing drivers staged a protest in Pretoria on Thursday against the impounding of their vehicles by Tshwane metro police, citing a massive backlog in operating permit applications.

Wonder Gala, president of the Pretoria e-hailing association, said drivers face fines of R6,000 to retrieve impounded vehicles, with some officers allegedly demanding bribes. The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has left thousands waiting for permits, with 6,100 applications pending.

“The government is exacerbating our situation by demanding permits, which they have stopped issuing,” Gala said, noting that initial requirements have grown increasingly complex.

Build One South Africa member Ayanda Allie criticized the government’s failure to adapt regulations for digital platforms like Uber and Bolt, calling it a barrier to job creation.

Protesters refused to hand over their memorandum to Roads and Transport MMC Tlangi Mogale, insisting on meeting Mayor Nasiphi Moya, who was unavailable.