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Message: [QUOTE="Shamiso, post: 83581, member: 160"] Taxi enforgers beat a driver for carrying a passenger, sparking police probes. A motorist in Vanderbijlpark was pulled over and assaulted by men claiming to be taxi patrollers. They accused him of illegally transporting people in his private vehicle. Video footage shows the attackers using sjamboks during the violent roadside confrontation. The South African National Taxi Council strongly condemned the assault. A spokesperson labeled the actions criminal and unacceptable for legitimate industry operations. The council distanced itself from the patrollers involved, stressing they have no authority to stop private cars. This incident reflects a broader pattern of roadside harassment by taxi-affiliated groups. Similar assaults have occurred where drivers are accused of route piracy. Victims report being intimidated, forced to pay fines, or having passengers removed from their vehicles. Gauteng police opened a common assault case and are investigating. Authorities are reviewing video evidence and witness statements to identify the attackers. Possible additional charges include intimidation and unlawful detention. Community reactions express widespread fear among motorists offering casual lifts. Many now avoid certain routes or hesitate to carry passengers. Social media outrage has pressured officials for stronger action against vigilante behavior. Transport leaders acknowledge the taxi industry's economic importance but condemn violence. They emphasize that private vehicles can legally carry friends or family without permits. Dialogue between associations and communities is urged to address root tensions over competition. Legal experts clarify that patrollers possess no law enforcement powers. Victims can pursue civil claims or report incidents for criminal charges. Some taxi associations have launched internal probes, suspending members linked to such attacks. [/QUOTE]

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