Joburg motorists can now use their cellphones to check their traffic fines. The new technology was launched on 17 April.

USING technology popular with most residents, the Johannesburg Metro Police Department is making it easier for motorists to check and pay their outstanding fines.

The City's traffic department now offers a unique service whereby motorists can check outstanding fines via a short message service (SMS). Simply type in the word "Register" followed by your ID number in the message area and send the SMS to 34010.

"Once the motorist receives a confirmation registration, then the word 'Fine' can be SMSed to 34010 at any time," said Wayne Minnaar during the launch of the new number at Marks Park on 17 April.

The outstanding fine can be paid either online by visiting the www.payfine.co.za website. Alternatively, all fines can be paid at respective metro police departments or at any ABSA Bank.

Minnaar says the JMPD realised the need for such a service as cellphones are the most widely used technology in the country, with approximately 63 percent of the South African population connected.

Regular roadblocks
The JMPD has been stepping up its campaign to arrest motorists with outstanding warrants for traffic violations and can regularly be seen mounting roadblocks in and around the city.

Wayne Minnaar, spokesman for metro police

"There are units specifically targeting outstanding fines and these roadblocks take place on a daily basis throughout the City," confirms Edna Mamonyane, spokesperson for the JMPD.

The roadblocks are equipped with the latest in technology and sensors can register a suspected vehicle as it approaches the scene. A motorist with an outstanding fine or a warrant for arrest due to failure to pay the fine, can settle their accounts there and then, confirms Mamonyane as all roadblocks now offer debit and credit card facilities.

"This service will no doubt go a long way towards making it more accessible and convenient for motorists to check their outstanding fines," Minnaar concluded. It is also available in Cape Town, the Free State, Swellendam and Paarl.


Bank details to pay a fine:
ABSA Bank
Account number: 4054398332
Branch code: 637956

Related links:

• Website makes paying fines easy
• Traffic fines - whom to contact
• Where do I go to get a driver's licence?