Another 10 motorists caught for illegal ride-hailing services at Changi Airport, all vehicles confiscated

Another 10 motorists were caught for offering illegal ride-hailing services in Singapore on Jul. 18 at Changi Airport.

This came just a week after 22 people were caught doing the same as the Land Transport Authority (LTA) has stepped up enforcement efforts.

Vehicles impounded

LTA was targeting motorists who offer illegal ride-hailing services, such as point-to-point transport services without a valid licence.

All 10 illegal chauffeurs had their foreign-registered vehicles impounded.

Acted on tip-off

LTA said on Facebook on Jul. 19 that it had acted on a tip-off from the National Private Hire Vehicles Association (NPHVA).

“Such illegal services not only pose risks, as they may lack proper insurance, but they also undermine the livelihoods of licensed drivers,” LTA added in a video.

Licence required

A Public Service Vehicle Licence (PSVL) is required to offer taxi or private-hire car services in Singapore, which also applies to drivers of foreign-registered vehicles that offer cross-border services between Singapore and Malaysia.

LTA and Malaysia’s Land Public Transport Agency must approve Singapore- and Malaysia-registered taxis that provide cross-border rides.

Malaysia-registered taxis must have the PSVL and an Asean Public Service Vehicle Permit.

Previous enforcement action

Previously on Jul. 11, 22 motorists were caught at Changi Airport and Gardens by the Bay.

Some of those recently caught were also providing rides to and from Malaysia without the necessary permits.

Earlier in June, eight drivers were caught giving illegal rides to Gardens by the Bay and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum.

That effort was the first-ever joint operation between LTA and the Singapore Tourism Board.

Penalties

Since 2022, 104 drivers have been caught providing illegal cross-border passenger transport services using foreign-registered vehicles.

All of their vehicles were impounded.

The penalties for those who have been charged and convicted so far include fines of up to S$2,600 and vehicle forfeiture.

Those who provide illegal point-to-point transport services in Singapore can be fined up to S$3,000, jailed up to six months, or both.

Top photos via LTA