SINGAPORE: Commuters who have been tempted by “cheap” or “convenient” cross-border rides might want to think twice. In a recent islandwide operation, 10 vehicles were impounded for offering illegal ride-hail and cross-border transport services. This is part of LTA’s latest effort to crack down on unlicensed drivers operating without proper insurance or approval.

The operations, which were conducted across Singapore, targeted drivers who were offering unauthorised rides, usually through social media or private chat groups. Authorities have stated that the vehicles impounded were not licensed to operate in Singapore and are not covered by insurance. Therefore, if an accident happens, passengers would not be protected.

The news, shared on Senior Minister Sun Xueling’s Facebook page, added that since July this year, a total of 102 vehicles have already been seized under similar operations, showing just how widespread the issue has become.

The coordinated effort also saw collaboration between the Land Transport Authority (LTA), Taxi Kaki Singapore, and the National Private Hire Vehicles Association (NPHVA), with the goal of raising awareness about the dangers of illegal ride services.

To help commuters who genuinely need cross-border transport, ComfortDelGro and Strides Premier have both rolled out legal booking options that allow passengers to get doorstep pickup services for trips into Malaysia. This helped provide a safe and approved alternative for those who need these services.