Motorists warned about cloned number plates and traffic fines

South African motorists have been urged to check whether the correct traffic fines are in their names as number plates are being cloned.

According to Dear South Africa founder Rob Hutchinson, the cloning of number plates has become such a widespread problem that earlier this year, the Gauteng provincial government launched the pilot of a new licence plate system, which will run for six months before rolling out across the province and ultimately the country.

The provincial government has indicated that the new plates make use of technological advancements that are aimed at tracking criminal activities, such as vehicle theft, fraud and cloning.

Hutchinson said countrywide statistics show that one in five number plates are cloned and that judging from the feedback he receives from hundreds of subscribers on portal.finessa.co.za, the issue of incorrect fines is significantly greater than he thought.

Law For All managing director Jackie Nagtegaal said the onus is on the individual as the legitimate owner to prove their innocence and that motorists can “commit traffic crimes” without their knowledge.

Hutchinson added that in most cases, motorists may not even realise that they have a fine, and it is vital to check for fines listed in one’s name.

"An overdue fine, whether yours or not, could result in a warrant for your arrest. Being handed a warrant at a roadblock would be an unfortunate and abrupt end to your journey," he warned.

He said that checking for fines is by no means an acknowledgement of a fine.

In addition, fines can be disputed by submitting a written representation to the issuing authority, explaining the reason for the dispute, providing supporting evidence, such as proof of incorrect details, invalid certification, or documentation showing you were not the driver.

Feedback is then received from the relevant municipality, as they will assess whether the fine remains valid or should be withdrawn.

loyiso.sidimba@inl.co.za