12 motorists nabbed for providing illegal private-hire services: LTA

SINGAPORE – Twelve motorists were caught providing illegal private-hire services during an enforcement operation last week, said the Land Transport Authority (LTA).

Such illegal services include providing unlicensed point-to-point transport and illegal cross-border services.

Four of these motorists were booked near Punggol Road and Turf Club Avenue, said LTA on July 29. All vehicles were impounded.

LTA said it is ramping up enforcement against such illegal services for the sake of passenger safety and the interests of licensed drivers. It will conduct regular patrols and follow up on tip-offs from the National Private Hire Vehicles Association.

To offer taxi or private-hire car services here, all motorists must have a Public Service Vehicle Licence. Malaysia-registered taxis must also have an Asean Public Service Vehicle Permit.

LTA warned the public not to engage illegal private ride-hailing services as the motorists may not hold relevant licences or have proper insurance coverage to protect their passengers if an accident occurs.

“Your journey may be disrupted if the illegal service you’re using is caught in our enforcement ops,” the agency warned.

Since 2022, 116 drivers have been caught providing illegal cross-border passenger transport services using foreign-registered vehicles. Penalties dealt to those who have been charged and convicted include fines of up to $2,600 and vehicle forfeiture.

The maximum punishment for those found guilty of providing illegal ride-hailing services may be a fine of up to $3,000, jail for up to six months, or both.

Their vehicles may also be impounded and forfeited.

To report illegal ride-hailing services, the public can submit

an online form

on LTA’s OneMotoring website.