Illegal Ride Services at Changi Airport

In a significant enforcement action, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) apprehended 12 drivers on December 18 for offering illegal ride services at Changi Airport. These drivers were found providing unauthorized chauffeur services for trips between Singapore and Malaysia, as well as within Singapore itself.

LTA's Announcement

According to a Facebook announcement made by LTA on December 19, these drivers were operating without a valid Public Service Vehicle Licence (PSVL), which is essential for conducting cross-border trips. In response to the violations, LTA seized the foreign-registered vehicles of the offenders.

Public Safety Concerns

LTA has issued a strong warning to the public against using such illegal services, citing safety concerns. “These services are unsafe and may lack proper insurance, putting passengers at risk,” the authority emphasized.

Previous Crackdown

This incident follows a similar crackdown in August, where LTA detained 14 drivers at Changi Airport for the same infractions. LTA has clarified that only taxis registered in Singapore and Malaysia, which are sanctioned by both the LTA and Malaysia’s Land Public Transport Agency, are permitted to offer cross-border transportation.

Regulatory Requirements for Drivers

To further elaborate, in addition to holding a PSVL, Malaysia-registered taxis are also required to have an ASEAN Public Service Vehicle Permit. These licensed drivers are authorized to pick up or drop off passengers exclusively at the Ban San Street Terminal in Rochor during their time in Singapore. They cannot provide point-to-point rides, a measure intended to safeguard the livelihoods of local taxi and private hire car drivers, as stated by both the Ministry of Transport and LTA.

Severe Penalties for Offenders

The stakes for those caught engaging in illegal hire-and-reward services are high. Offenders may face fines of up to S$3,000 (approximately $2,200), imprisonment for up to six months, or both. Moreover, the vehicles involved may be forfeited.

Call to Action

As the LTA continues to enforce these regulations, passengers are urged to opt for legally licensed transport options to ensure their safety and compliance with the law. With strict penalties in place and growing enforcement efforts, users of ride services should remain vigilant and report any suspicious operations to the authorities. Don't risk it—choose safety, choose legality!