The Tshwane metro has reintroduced its speed cameras in all seven regions and is looking to prosecute the approximately 300 traffic infringements cases currently on the system.

Tshwane metro police (TMPD) spokesperson Isaac Mahamba confirmed that a service provider had been appointed to assist in manning the law enforcement equipment, but he did not want to divulge any information about when this deal was signed or when the cameras became operational again.

“We are looking to prosecute motorists as there are currently about 300 cases that we need to approach the courts over, to look at litigation processes,” Mahamba said.

“We can confirm that speed cameras are working currently after being out of action for two years.

“We are operating on 50% capacity currently while waiting for other equipment to be delivered and thereafter it will be 100% operational. We are pleased to be operating and we will be able to deal with speed offenders in Tshwane,” said Mahamba.

He added that the cameras had not been operational due to contractual issues so the metro had to negotiate another deal.

“We are in agreement with a service provider and are looking to have moving violation cameras fitted in vehicles and other speed cameras planted at certain spots.”

Mahamba said speeding was a huge problem, not just in Tshwane but nationally, and the cameras would benefit the metro to enforce the law and improve revenue.

“Speeding has been causing accidents and if we enforce reduced speed, the number of fatalities on the road will decrease.”

Mahamba, however, emphasised that speed cameras were not just revenue generating tools but for prosecuting speedsters and reduce fatalities, accidents as well as correct traffic lawlessness and improve driver compliance.

He said the metro had lost several million rand in the years the camera system was not functional.

“I cannot estimate how much we lost just in the months or years when the cameras were not functional but its millions that could have been generated towards the metro’s finances.

“We are pleased and have staff trained available to capture speedsters.”

Mahamba said the TMPD had issued fines worth R5m during the festive season.

“A total of 9 210 infringement notices were issued with a combined value of over R5m from December 1 to January 103 and 6 737 vehicles as well as 4 597 people were stopped and searched while 9 207 vehicles were inspected for roadworthiness.”