With an eight per cent fare increase now in effect for public passenger vehicle operators, the Transport Ministry is warning of a zero-tolerance approach to those who overcharge commuters.

Portfolio Minister Daryl Vaz gave the caution during a press conference at the Ministry’s Kingston office today.

It followed his announcement that the operators will get half of their 16 per cent fare increase effective today, and the remaining 8 per cent on July 1.

The Minister noted that he is aware that some operators had already increased their fares before the Government’s approval today.

He warned those operators not to add any further increase to their fares.

If they do, they will face serious legal repercussions.

The Minister stressed that the approved fare adjustment is intended to support the sustainability of the sector, not create an opportunity for profiteering at the expense of the Jamaican people.

Mr. Vaz is urging citizens to report operators who are found to be in breach of the approved fares.