SPAD to take stern action against errant express bus operators

The Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) will take stern action against express bus operators found selling tickets at higher prices to make profits, especially during the festive seasons or holidays.

Its Enforcement chief Datuk Che Hasni Che Ahmad said there were express bus operators, who conspired with ticket touts to sell tickets at higher prices outside the ticket counters.

He said they could be charged under Section 205(1) of the Land Public Transport Act 2010 (Act 715) which provides for a maximum fine of RM50,000 or imprisonment not exceeding five years or both, if convicted.

"We hope passengers who experience this situation will report to SPAD," he told reporters after an integrated operation with other enforcement agencies in Jasin Toll Plaza here, Saturday.

He said there were also ticket sellers who did not issue tickets to the passengers to cover the price increase.

Commenting on the operation, Che Hasni said that an express bus en route from Larkin, Johor to Kuala Lumpur was suspected to be involved in ticket touts because the passengers were issued different prices of tickets and some of them did not have tickets.

"SPAD will conduct further investigation on the driver, passengers and bus operators," he said.

He said 59 offences were committed by lorry, bus and taxi drivers including failure to present valid permits or operating licences.

Meanwhile, Che Hasni said a total of 3,637 vehicles involving taxis, buses, lorries and 'pirate' vehicles were inspected in 2,100 daily operations between January and April this year.

He said the highest number of offences were committed by taxi drivers with a total 1,495 cases, followed by lorry (1,478), bus (561) and 'pirate vehicle' (88).

"A total of 1,056 taxi drivers were not using metres," he said.