Nemani Calls for Crackdown on Illegal Taxis

Accident Compensation Commission Fiji Executive Chairman Maritino Nemani has called for stronger enforcement against illegal taxi operators, particularly those allegedly allowing provisional licence holders to carry paying passengers.

Nemani urged the Land Transport Authority, working alongside police, to conduct targeted checks on suspected operators and verify drivers’ licences, vehicle permits and compliance with safety requirements.

He said unlicensed taxis, commonly known as pirate or pari taxis, raised serious concerns about passenger safety and driver qualifications.

“Members of the public who pay for transport have every right to expect that the person behind the wheel is properly licensed, the vehicle meets the required safety standards and the operator is complying with the law.”

Nemani said reports of provisional drivers operating illegal taxi services deserved particular attention.

“Provisional drivers are still progressing towards full driving privileges. Allowing inexperienced drivers to carry paying passengers outside the regulated public transport system creates unnecessary risks, particularly when the required checks and safeguards may not be in place.”

He said driver vetting, vehicle inspections and the appropriate Motor Vehicle Accident Levy were important safeguards for those transporting passengers for payment.

Nemani also called for scrutiny of suspected illegal services operating through informal arrangements and ride-sharing platforms.

While acknowledging that some communities struggled to access reliable public transport, he said those difficulties should be addressed without compromising safety.

“We recognise that some communities face genuine difficulties accessing reliable public transport. However, the solution cannot be to compromise passenger safety or allow unlicensed operators to disregard the requirements imposed on legitimate taxi drivers.”

Nemani said ACCF regularly dealt with the consequences of road accidents and the lasting impact on victims and their families.

“By the time an accident victim requires compensation, the damage has already been done. No financial payment can undo a serious injury or bring back a life that has been lost.”

He encouraged passengers to use licensed transport services and report suspected illegal taxi operations to LTA, especially those allegedly involving provisional drivers.

“Protecting passengers must come first. The law must be applied consistently, and those transporting members of the public for payment must meet the standards required of them.”