The Eastern Cape Transport Department have expressed their disappointment in allegations that luxury coaches, domestic bus companies as well as minibus taxis in the province have been implicated in hiking their prices during Level 4 lockdown.
Angry and inconvenienced commuters took to social media to complain about the price hikes which is especially rife in Mthatha where several long-distance taxis operate from.
Stage 4 lockdown allowed members of the public, who were not at their place of residence up until now, to undertake a once-off trip to go to their homes.
This window period will come to an end on Thursday the 7th of May.
Department spokesperson Unathi Bhinqose, says MEC Weziwe Tikana Gxothiwe is disappointed in this extortion and encouraged commuters to report it to the Competitions Commission.
He stated that the MEC wants anyone who is responsible for these hikes brought to book.
She will also escalate the matter to the National Command Council in order for intervention on a national level.
