JMPD denies setting targets for collection of traffic fines
The DA in Gauteng has accused the Johannesburg metro police of victimising motorists by setting revenue-based policing targets.
The party claims that JMPD officers are pressured to collect at least R7,000 in traffic fines daily.
The claim has been denied by the JMPD.
DA community safety spokesperson Michael Sun says they have written to Premier Panyaza Lesufi to seek clarity on the issue, the legality of roadblocks, and the use of public resources for what the party believes to be questionable policing operations.
Sun says motorists in Joburg are facing increased victimisation due to political interference within the JMPD.
“The DA strongly condemns this behaviour and demands that Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi intervene to abolish all revenue-based policing targets and restore ethical and lawful policing.
“To incentivise compliance with these targets, officers are reportedly provided with overtime payments, effectively transforming law enforcement into a commission-based revenue scheme.”
“This pushes JMPD officers to aggressively pursue fines instead of focusing on their duties, such as bylaw enforcement, traffic management, and crime prevention.”
However, the JMPD has denied setting officers targets linked to traffic fines.
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla says officers' performance is measured by their effectiveness in creating a safer environment for the community.
“It is important to clarify that while issuing citations is an expected part of an officer's duty to enforce traffic regulations, there is no quota system that they are expected to follow.
“The department's focus is on ensuring compliance with traffic laws to prevent accidents and protect the lives of all road users, not on generating a specific number of fines.”
ALOS READ:
