‘Spot fines’ are illegal

According to Wilfred Kgasago, spokesman for the EMPD, the is no by-law in place which allows traffic officers to ask for a spot fine.

“The EMPD has no by-law in place in that regard,” he confirms.

“We naturally follow the provisions of the National Road Traffic Act which only allows us to issue a fine for a traffic offence when motorists are pulled over.”

He adds that nothing so far has been raised in that direction within the Ekurhuleni Metro.

The Addie posted a question on our Facebook page to ask readers if they have ever been asked to pay a spot fine by traffic officers when pulled over.

• Margaret Coetzee: “Yes, but the traffic officer wanted a burger.”

• To which Eloise Grobler replied that it must have been a bribe.

• Cindy Araujo: “Yes and then the officer said the money is too little to buy the type of whiskey he drinks.”

• Bushy van Eck: “Unlike many citizens out there, I obey the laws. Just look at your local traffic signs and how few citizens have the decency to obey these laws being in total disrespect thereof. However, if I had to be caught for drunken driving then I would certainly be a fool not to pay a “Spot Fine” subjecting myself to quick justice. For a normal speeding ticket or other traffic offence depending on the severity thereof is of course another story which your moral values can handle.”

• Christiaan Coetzer: “In Springs, six times.”