POLOKWANE – Discontent is mounting among motorists over the city’s newly deployed mobile speed-trap cameras, with growing concerns about their accuracy, transparency and enforcement.

The debate has intensified since Polokwane Observer reported two weeks ago on the cameras, which are moved daily across busy routes.

Also read: Polokwane speed traps permanent, expansion planned

Thousands of speeding notices issued daily

Around 2 000 speeding notices are issued each day, although motorists are now more alert compared to two months ago when the green roadside camera boxes first appeared, catching drivers off guard and issuing fines ranging from R300 to R2 000.

Municipal traffic spokesperson Kgaogelo Mphago previously said the cameras are permanent and would expand to major routes, including the N1, by December.

‘Show us proof’

Some motorists have started challenging the system.

One reader, whose identity id withheld, said his company truck’s tracking data showed a maximum speed of 67km/h on the day he received a court notice alleging he was travelling between 96km/h and 100km/h in a lower speed zone.

“I remain unanswered, so I am not willing to pay the fine. This is about holding systems accountable that may have been placed to abuse motorists,” he said, urging others to compare tracking data before paying.

Another motorist, Boikanyo Moala, who received a R900 fine for a supposed transgression on February 5, has repeatedly requested technical proof from the municipality.

His queries include a calibration certificate for the day of the offence, the operator’s certificate, details of how the camera angle relative to the road was measured, and information on the ‘correction factor’ programmed into the device.

Muni defends camera system

Municipal spokesperson Thipa Selala said the system, operated through a contractor, complies with Section 59 of the National Road Traffic Act and is intended to curb road fatalities caused by speeding and reckless driving.

He assured motorists that no discrepancies have been identified and that all equipment undergoes routine calibration and verification to ensure accuracy and reliability.

He added that the municipality does not discuss individual notices publicly, as they are treated as confidential, and advised motorists to visit Traffic Services offices in Ladanna for assistance or to follow legal processes.

Legal expert warns of possible challenges

Legal expert Philip Smit said while motorists should prioritise safe driving, technical errors – such as incorrect angle factors during camera setup – are possible. He warned that if motorists can prove inaccuracies using vehicle tracking data, the municipality could face legal challenges.

Although Selala said no litigation has yet been reported, Smit noted disputes could escalate if concerns persist.

He also criticised the practice of forcing motorists to pay outstanding fines before renewing their driver’s licences, calling it unlawful, though commonly applied.

“Motorists are placed in a catch-22 situation, as they cannot renew licences without paying, yet may wish to challenge the fines in court,” he said.

Under the municipality’s infringement guidelines, speeding fines range from R300 for 71–75km/h to R2 000 for speeds exceeding 106km/h.