The DA in Limpopo will file a criminal complaint with SAPS against Great North Transport (GNT) and the Department of Economic Development, Environment, and Tourism (LEDET) for knowingly and recklessly allowing GNT to operate unroadworthy buses. Additionally, we will bring this matter to the attention of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), which is already investigating GNT under a presidential proclamation.
According to reports which surfaced during recent SCOPA hearings in the Limpopo Legislature, GNT incurred over R15 million in penalties from the Department of Roads and Transport for non-compliance with the National Land Transportation Act for the financial years ending 31 March 2018 and 2019. These violations include operating vehicles in a substandard condition. Additionally, during the same two financial periods, GNT accumulated over R500,000 in traffic fines, the majority of which were for operating unroadworthy buses, having faulty safety indicators, and expired permits .
As a result, thousands of GNT passengers and other road users have been put at serious risk. If a bus operating under such conditions were to be involved in a fatal accident, it could constitute culpable homicide—a charge that carries the potential for a life sentence.
It is unacceptable that GNT, LEDET, and the ANC-led provincial administration continue to recklessly endanger the lives of Limpopo’s residents. The DA demands immediate action to hold those responsible accountable and to ensure the safety of all commuters.