19 motorists caught for illegal ride-hailing services at land checkpoint, Changi Airport & Gardens by the Bay

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) recently caught 19 drivers providing illegal ride-hailing services within Singapore, and to and from Malaysia.

The drivers were caught during a recent patrol at Gardens by the Bay and Changi Airport, as well as joint operations with the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) at a land checkpoint, LTA said in a Facebook post on Aug. 6.

All vehicles were impounded.

"With our ongoing regulatory efforts and tip-offs from the National Private Hire Vehicles Association and National Taxi Association, our enforcement officers continue to act against vehicles providing illegal ride-hailing services to safeguard passenger safety and the interests of licensed drivers," LTA added.

LTA warned against using illegal ride-hailing services, as it puts passengers at risk and may disrupt their journey if the service is caught during enforcement operations.

Those found guilty of providing illegal ride-hailing services may face up to S$3,000 in fines and/or six months' imprisonment.

The vehicles may also be forfeited.

Not to inconvenience passengers

Senior Minister of State for Transport Sun Xueling shared in a Facebook post on the same day that the intent of clamping down on illegal point-to-point services is to tackle the drivers who lack the proper license and insurance coverage for their passengers.

"Such services put passengers at risk, and harms the livelihoods of law-abiding licensed drivers," she added.

Sun stated that the intent is not to inconvenience passengers and acknowledged that many residents travel to Malaysia for numerous reasons.

She added:

"We understand that they are looking for more convenient pick up and drop off points, for vehicles that cater to the needs of families, and for cross-border services to be provided in a safe manner."

Sun also shared that the Singapore authorities are looking to improve the licensed cross-border taxi scheme by expanding the boarding and alighting points and encouraging more taxis to be part of the scheme.

This also includes different vehicle types to cater to various passenger needs and a user-friendly booking app.

However, Sun said that as these are reciprocal arrangements with Malaysia, both governments need to agree on the changes.

Previous enforcement action

Since 2022, 136 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.

In the last round of enforcement action carried out, 12 motorists were caught in a week for offering illegal ride-hailing services, LTA said on Jul. 29.

This included four who were caught near Punggol Road and Turf Club Avenue.

Before that, 10 people were similarly caught doing the same.

Top photos via Sun Xueling/Facebook & LTA/Facebook