The Accident Compensation Commission Fiji (ACCF) has called for tougher enforcement against illegal taxi services, commonly known as pirate or pari taxis, warning that unlicensed operators are putting passengers at risk.
ACCF executive chairman Maritino Nemani has urged the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and Fiji Police Force to conduct targeted checks on illegal taxi operators, particularly those using provisional licence holders to transport paying passengers.
He said the continued operation of pirate and pari taxis raised serious concerns about passenger safety, driver qualifications and compliance with transport laws.
“Members of the public who pay for transport have every right to expect that the person behind the wheel is properly licensed, the vehicle meets the required safety standards and the operator is complying with the law.”
Mr Nemani expressed particular concern over allegations that provisional licence holders were operating illegal taxi services.
“Allowing inexperienced drivers to carry paying passengers outside the regulated public transport system creates unnecessary risks, particularly when the required checks and safeguards may not be in place.”
He said Fiji’s new two-stage provisional licensing system made enforcement of licence conditions even more important.
Mr Nemani stressed that private vehicles transporting passengers for payment must comply with Public Service Vehicle licensing requirements, including driver vetting, vehicle inspections and the appropriate Motor Vehicle Accident Levy.
He also called for greater scrutiny of pirate taxis operating through informal arrangements and ride-sharing platforms.
While acknowledging that some communities faced difficulties accessing reliable public transport, he said passenger safety could not be compromised.
“By the time an accident victim requires compensation, the damage has already been done. No financial payment can undo a serious injury or bring back a life that has been lost.”
Mr Nemani urged the public to use licensed transport services and report suspected illegal taxi operations to LTA.
