Cape Town’s Traffic Service has been working hard to locate and pursue the “Top 100” list of drivers who have the highest number of outstanding warrants for the last five years. As of July 17th, the group has collectively racked up 9,430 outstanding warrants, amounting to a staggering R9,129,180 ($611,366) in unpaid fines and penalties. The top offender alone has 268 warrants, totaling just under R300,000 ($20,000).
Pursuing the Top 100 List
Despite some progress in locating these notorious warrant dodgers, many remain at large. Between January and June 2023, the team responsible for managing the Top 100 list issued 14,773 warrants. Arrests were made in relation to roughly 2,000 of these warrants, demonstrating the ongoing difficulties faced by the Traffic Service and law enforcement in bringing these individuals to justice.
Tightening the Net
The impending expansion of the Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology promises to tighten the net around these and other delinquent drivers. This specialized technology is expected to substantially improve the chances of apprehending these drivers and increasing accountability on the roads.
Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith, emphasizes the gravity of the situation, stating “The list represents the lack of accountability that so many road users appear to have no problem with…because they think they can get away with it.” Serving warrants in person, as required by the legislation, often necessitates stakeouts and other extreme measures to track down elusive offenders.
Paying Fines
For those seeking to pay their traffic fines, there are several options available. Online payments can be made at www.paythat.co.za, which covers fines before July 1, 2022. Additionally, motorists can pay in person at various retail locations, such as select SPAR outlets, Ackermans, Builder’s Warehouse, Game, Makro, PEP, Pick n Pay, and Shoprite/Checkers Money Market kiosks.
Accountability and Safety
As the Traffic Service continues its relentless pursuit of the Top 100 warrant dodgers, the integration of advanced technology like ANPR, coupled with traditional policing methods, offers a beacon of hope for increased accountability and safety on Cape Town’s roads. The public is reminded that the National Road Traffic Act authorizes local authorities to place an administration mark against an offender’s identity number. This renders the individual unable to perform any transactions on the Natis system, including the renewal of driving licenses and motor vehicle licenses.
