The Land Transport Authority conducted sting operations in Singapore and seized three cars used by their drivers for illegal carpooling services during Phase 2 (Heightened Alert).

Enforcement operations were conducted at several locations, LTA said in a Facebook post on July 29, 2021.

According to LTA, two drivers were booked for allegedly using unlicensed vehicles to provide transport services, while another driver was booked for allegedly providing transport services without the requisite vocational licence.

The vehicles were seized while investigations are being carried out.

Photos put up by LTA showed the enforcement action was carried out at Punggol and Woodlands.

It is understood that illegal carpooling activities are arranged on group chats that proliferate on platforms such as Telegram.

One group chat can have hundreds or thousands of members who are drivers and commuters.

Carpooling services, such as those provided via GrabHitch, Rydepool, or those arranged privately involving payment are not allowed during Phase 2 (Heightened Alert).

LTA reminded members of the public to take public transport or use licensed ride-hail operators to book a taxi or private hire car.