Lesotho Traffic Inspectorate Joins CBRTA in Crackdown on Fake and Expired Driving Permits

The Department of Traffic and Transport in Lesotho has strengthened efforts to combat road traffic offences through a joint law enforcement operation with South Africa’s Cross-Border Road Transport Agency (CBRTA). The operation took place from Wednesday, October 28, to Friday, October 30, 2026, involving officers from the Traffic Inspectorate and CBRTA law enforcement teams. The joint roadblocks formed part of the CBRTA’s October Transport Month campaign, which focuses on promoting road safety and addressing violations within the transport industry. One of the main priorities was identifying fake and expired driving documents used by motorists operating across borders. The operation also provided an opportunity for Lesotho and South African authorities to strengthen cooperation in verifying driving permits and enforcing transport regulations.

The joint roadblocks followed an invitation from the CBRTA to the Department of Traffic and Transport as part of activities marking the end of October Transport Month. According to the CBRTA, road traffic offences, including the use of fake and expired licences, remain a significant concern during this period. Such violations can create serious risks for other road users because they undermine the systems designed to ensure that drivers meet the required legal standards. Fake driving documents also make it difficult for enforcement authorities to establish whether motorists hold valid permits. Through coordinated inspections, the two agencies aimed to identify irregularities and improve compliance with road traffic laws.

The participation of Lesotho’s Traffic Inspectorate officers was particularly important because many drivers operating in the cross-border transport sector use Lesotho-issued driving documents. Their involvement helped CBRTA law enforcement officers verify the authenticity of Lesotho Public Driving Permits presented during the roadblocks. This cooperation allowed officials to distinguish between legitimate documents and those suspected of being fraudulent. It also strengthened communication between the two countries’ transport authorities on matters involving driving permits and regulatory compliance. Having officials familiar with Lesotho’s documentation systems present during the operation helped improve the verification process.

The intensive enforcement operation reportedly resulted in the recovery of most of the fake Lesotho Public Driving Permits identified during the campaign. This outcome highlights the importance of regular roadblocks and document verification exercises in addressing fraudulent activities within the transport sector. The circulation of counterfeit driving permits poses challenges for law enforcement agencies and creates concerns about road safety. Drivers who use fraudulent documents may not have completed the required procedures to obtain legitimate driving authorisation. This makes it essential for authorities to maintain strict controls and ensure that only properly issued and valid documents are accepted.

The use of fake or expired driving permits is not simply an administrative offence. It can undermine public confidence in the transport licensing system and expose other road users to unnecessary risks. A valid driving permit provides evidence that a driver has met the applicable legal requirements for operating a vehicle. When individuals purchase counterfeit documents, they bypass the established procedures and weaken the integrity of the system. Transport authorities therefore have an important responsibility to identify fraudulent documents and take appropriate action against those involved. Joint operations between neighbouring countries can make these enforcement efforts more effective, particularly where motorists regularly cross international borders.

Following the operation, the Ministry of Transport and its relevant authorities appealed to individuals involved in selling or purchasing fake Lesotho Public Driving Permits to stop immediately. The warning serves as a reminder that fraudulent documents can have serious legal consequences for both sellers and buyers. Individuals who participate in these activities risk facing enforcement action if authorities discover that they possess or distribute counterfeit permits. The ministry has also indicated that the joint operation with the CBRTA is continuing in earnest. This means motorists should expect continued attention to document verification and compliance with transport regulations.

The ongoing cooperation between Lesotho’s Traffic Inspectorate and South Africa’s CBRTA reflects the importance of cross-border law enforcement in maintaining safer roads. Transport activities frequently extend beyond national borders, making cooperation between regulatory authorities essential. Drivers who operate internationally must ensure that their licences and permits meet the requirements of the countries in which they travel. Authorities also need reliable systems for checking documents and identifying fraudulent information. By working together, Lesotho and South African officials can improve enforcement, strengthen accountability and address transport-related offences more effectively.

The October 28 to 30 operation also highlights the wider importance of October Transport Month as a period for raising awareness about responsible road use and compliance with transport laws. Campaigns of this nature provide an opportunity for enforcement agencies to address common violations while encouraging motorists to take their legal responsibilities seriously. However, road safety requires more than occasional roadblocks. It depends on consistent enforcement, public awareness and cooperation from drivers, transport operators and businesses. Motorists must understand that using genuine and valid driving documents protects their interests and contributes to safer roads for everyone.

The joint operation by Lesotho’s Department of Traffic and Transport and South Africa’s CBRTA sends a clear warning to individuals involved in the production, sale and purchase of fake driving permits. The recovery of fraudulent Lesotho Public Driving Permits demonstrates the value of cooperation between the two countries’ enforcement agencies. The ministry’s appeal also makes it clear that authorities intend to continue addressing document fraud through ongoing joint operations. Drivers and transport operators should ensure that their documents are genuine, valid and properly authorised. Stronger enforcement and responsible behaviour will remain essential in protecting the credibility of Lesotho’s driving permit system and improving road safety across the region.