Lowveld traffic scams must be vehemently condemned and stopped

Lowveld traffic scams must be vehemently condemned and stopped

The Lowveld is widely known as the gateway to the Kruger National Park and renowned for its breath taking views, but disturbingly, tourists and residents are now reporting abuse and violence from traffic officials.

Approaching the festive season, the Democratic Alliance (DA) in Mbombela received reports about traffic officials making use of 'spot fines' to collect money from unsuspecting tourists and residents. Although traffic law allows for spot fines, traffic officers have to accompany road traffic offenders (mostly tourists) to police stations where fines be paid and receipts must be granted on payments, but apparently this is not happening.

We have received a number of complaints from tourists, tour operators and residents that have documented their experiences while visiting and residing in the Lowveld. These traffic officials must know that we have a massive influx of tourists and they are adding great economic value to the entire region.

In October, the DA in the Mpumalanga provincial legislature wrote to MEC for safety and security Vusi Shongwe, asking for confirmation that 'Spot fines' are in fact illegal and that his various departments within the realm of his portfolio be advised as to the seriousness of these scams.

Till to date, the DA has not received a response from MEC Shongwe, but have been advised through sources that steps have been taken following our letter to him as well as requests for intervention by the Kruger Lowveld Chamber of Business and Tourism (KLCBT). We ask that MEC Shongwe publically announce that these spot fines are in-fact illegal, in an attempt to protect unsuspecting tourists and residents.

The DA will also ask CoGta MEC, Refilwe Mtshweni, to play her part in investigating the circumstances and financial implications that led to the employment of 24 law enforcement officers in Mbombela, without following council resolutions.

The appointments made on October 2, and it is rumoured that only ANC cadres from Ehlanzeni region, some of whom have criminal records, were interviewed and eventually appointed to the posts - after Municipal Manager, Noko Seanego, imposed them to the interviewing panel.

The DA would like to request visitors and residents to be more vigilante and report corrupt traffic officials to the nearest police station.