More about roadblocks
SANDTON – Metro police spokesperson, Edna Mamonyane, explains why roadblocks in the Sandton area are vital.
Johannesburg Metro Police Department often conduct roadblocks throughout Sandton on public roads such as Sandton Drive or William Nicol.
Although these roadblocks are renowned for causing traffic jams, Metro police spokesperson, Edna Mamonyane explained that these operations are aimed at, not only checking for unpaid speeding fines but combating crime. Metro police keep their eyes peeled for drugs, illegal weapons and criminals. “You must remember that criminals get up in the morning just like you and me and use the roads just like you and me.
“They could be pursuing someone that they want to hijack or they could be planning to rob a jewellery store. These road blocks are aimed at stopping them in their tracks and we specifically look for those who are travelling with weapons such as guns.”
Mamonyane stressed that there have been many cases in the Sandton area where Metro police have found drivers in the possession of illegal drugs and weapons. “[South African Police Services] work in conjunction with us during these roadblocks.”
In terms of traffic fines, such as speeding fines, she explained that Metro police do not have the authority to arrest drivers who have not paid their fines. “Unless we have a warrant out for your arrest, we cannot arrest you.
“We can only advise you and tell you that you need to pay a fine in order to one day renew your driver’s licence and get a new licence disk for your car.”
She explained that many people who have unpaid fines, phone her in a panic at the license department. “These people phone and tell me that they have outstanding fines for thousands of rands and, therefore, cannot renew their licence. Please remember that nobody has the authority to cancel these unpaid fines. You [the driver] have to pay fines on time and that is the bottom line.”
She recommended that drivers research their unpaid fines properly, as it is usually only one or two fines that need to be paid in order to renew your licence. “If you have fines for R8 000 for example, maybe look into it and you only have to pay a portion of that to renew your licence.”
She stressed that in the event a driver is summoned and has to go to court for unpaid speeding fines, this driver is given the opportunity to explain why the fines could not be paid. “For example, if you were in hospital or had a car accident, the magistrate will understand why you were unable to pay.”
Read also: EMS seeks Metro police intervention
Join the Joburg North Local News WhatsApp group and get live news updates sent straight to your phone. Just send a WhatsApp message with your name and surname to 079 439 5345.
