2 S'pore-registered MPVs at Legoland M'sia reportedly seized by JB authorities for suspected illegal ride-hailing

Two Singapore-registered SUVs suspected of soliciting and pick up passengers near Legoland Malaysia were reportedly seized by the Johor Road Transport Department on Aug. 9.

Were allegedly preparing to take passengers to Singapore

According to Malaysian media China Press, at about 12 noon, the drivers of both cars were supposedly preparing to take passengers to Singapore when they were approached by enforcement officers from the department.

One source interviewed by the outlet claimed that he believed the department was clamping down following complaints by the public.

He added that the issue of illegal ride-hailing services to and from Malaysia in Singapore has attracted attention in both countries.

Photos of the alleged crackdown were also uploaded to Facebook with the following caption in Mandarin:

"You catch me, I catch you, let's hurt each other and see who is hurt more, Singapore dollar vs ringgit car price."

China Press further reported that the Johor Road Transport Department has yet to release details about the Aug. 9 incident.

Incident follows report that 70 per cent of illegal ride-hailing drivers have cancelled their services

The incident follows an earlier report by China Press that about 70 per cent of illegal ride-hailing drivers have cancelled their services ahead of the National Day weekend, after the Land Transport Authority (LTA) in Singapore ramped up enforcement clamp down on illegal ride-hailing services to and from Malaysia.

One driver, Chen (transliteration), said with such severe penalties, many drivers do not want to take the risk.

LTA has warned against using illegal ride-hailing services as it puts passengers at risk.

And if the driver is caught during enforcement operations, it may disrupt their journey.

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

The vehicles may also be forfeited.

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