Speed cameras defended

2009-06-10 08:19

Johannesburg - There is nothing wrong with mobile speed cameras or the officers operating them, Johannesburg metro police said on Tuesday.

"All laser speed cameras which are used get checked and calibrated and are also issued with calibration certificates every six months," said Chief Superintendent Wayne Minnaar.

"The sites where speed cameras are placed have been pre-approved by the director of public prosecutions."

It was a "department of repute" that enforced the law according to the National Road Traffic Act, the Criminal Procedures Act and the Administration and Adjudication of Road Offences Act, in line with Constitution.

Minnaar was reacting to statements by the Scrutiny of Inequitable Traffic Enforcement and the Justice Project of South Africa (JPSA), organisations which had called for the banning of mobile speed cameras.

Fraud accusation

The Citizen reported on Tuesday that the JPSA received complaints about speed trapping from all over the country. It also accused the metro police of fraud and said officers were not adequately trained.

Minnaar said all officers operating speed cameras had been trained and were in possession of operator's certificates.

"If, however, there are any individuals within the JMPD who are flouting the laws which we are supposed to uphold, they must be reported."

Minnaar called on anybody who may know of corrupt officials to call the JMPD's acting director of internal affairs Beauty Legoabe on 011 4901703, fax her on 011 4901628, or call the JMPD's hotline on 0800 203 712.

- SAPA