This morning, June 2, 2025, Port Vila woke up to a surprise from the authorities. Just as the city was gearing up for the new school term and the usual rush to work, dozens of vehicles were stopped and—yes—confiscated due to missing or expired paperwork.

It wasn’t just the Port Vila Public Land Transport Authority (PVLTA) getting serious today. The Traffic Police teamed up to enforce traffic laws strictly, while the Customs Department also joined the party, checking business licenses for transport operators. If you thought you could cruise without proper licenses, roadworthy certificates, road tax, or business permits, this morning was a rude awakening.

Why Pick the First Day of School for a Crackdown?

You’d think the authorities could pick a less chaotic day to enforce the law, right? Nope! Today was the “perfect” day to remind everyone who’s the boss. The result? Buses and public transport vehicles were left immobilized, commuters stranded, and a tidal wave of late arrivals for work. Because nothing says “welcome back to school” like no bus to get you there on time.

PVLTA Compound Overflows with Stranded Vehicles and Frustrated Owners

The PVLTA compound quickly became the place to be—if you were a frustrated vehicle owner stuck sorting your paperwork or trying to reclaim your ride. All day long, people came and went, navigating lines and paperwork headaches. The normally quiet compound was buzzing with activity that nobody asked for.

Not Just Any Vehicles Were Targeted

Public transport vehicles sporting unauthorized stickers, flashy customized lights, extra horns, and other “creative” modifications didn’t get a free pass either. The Traffic Regulation Act, Section 18, clearly states: “No vehicle shall be equipped with unauthorized lighting, horns, or decals that cause distraction or mislead other road users.” Apparently, your neon light show isn’t just tacky—it’s illegal.

Evening Sweep: No Vehicle Left Unchecked

Think you dodged the morning raid? Think again. The evening brought an extra round of inspections. Vehicles that managed to slip through this morning were stopped and checked—like trying to herd chickens only to realize the fence has been closed on every exit.

What Does This Mean for You?

If your vehicle’s paperwork isn’t in order—driver’s license, roadworthy certificate, road tax, business permit—you’re playing a dangerous game. The combined efforts of PVLTA, Traffic Police, and Customs make it clear: the days of leniency are over.

So before you hit the road next time, make sure your documents are in order. Otherwise, you might find yourself stranded—again.

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For more information on vehicle regulations and licensing in Vanuatu, visit the official websites of the Port Vila Land Transport Authority (PVLTA), the Vanuatu Police Traffic Division, or the Vanuatu Customs and Inland Revenue Department. You can also visit the PVLTA office in person at the SHEFA Provincial Headquarters compound on Rue de Paris in Port Vila.