VEHICLES seized by the Land Transport Authority could face deregistration for up to one year.
Road Safety west director Joji Sumuturaga issued a warning to all operators involved in the illegal transport trade saying no leniency will be shown to those who have rampant disregard for the law.
"This week alone we have seized 28 vehicles, these include private cars operating as rentals and vans being used as taxis. Once our investigations are completed, we will begin deregistering vehicles. Some could be facing deregistration for up to one year and we have a three strike rule. If our records reveal drivers have been sufficiently warned, their vehicles will be deregistered. This will be at the discretion of our chief executive officer, Naisa Tuinaceva," he said.
Mr Sumuturaga said the continuing illegal transport trade was not only infringing on the business of legal taxis and bus services but also presented a safety issue for the travelling public.
"The Third Party Insurance Policy of private vehicles will not cover passengers should an accident occur and this is a serious safety issue which all travellers in the Western Division should be aware of and concerned about."