5 caught offering rides on Telegram, PHV association reminds members not to confront illegal drivers
Five illegal private-hire vehicle (PHV) drivers offering ride services on Telegram were caught in past weeks, said Senior Minister of State for Transport Sun Xueling.
LTA has been carrying out operations against illegal point-to-point (P2P) services matched using the messaging app, said Ms Sun in a Sept 11 social media post.
The five drivers had their vehicles impounded.
Ms Sun said: "Since July 2025, we have stepped up enforcement against illegal P2P services, where over 70 vehicles have been impounded. These vehicles will be subject to forfeiture following the conclusion of the court prosecutions."
She added that the Government is looking to enhance penalties such as increased fines and imprisonment terms to send a stronger deterrence signal.
"Enforcement operations at hot spots and at land checkpoints will continue," said Ms Sun.
"We are also considering barring drivers and vehicles suspected of providing illegal point-to-point services from entering Singapore."
The National Private Hire Vehicles Association (NPHVA) lauded the move.
"We thank LTA and Ministry of Transport for their firm action to protect the livelihoods of licensed drivers," said the NPHVA in a Facebook post.
"With tip-offs from NPHVA and regular patrols, enforcement officers recently caught five local drivers offering suspected illegal point-to-point services through Telegram chat groups."
The association also reminded its members: "Please do not confront suspected illegal drivers directly.
"For your safety, do not act as enforcement officers. If you spot suspicious activity, please use the proper reporting channels."
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