The Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) has been unable to issue traffic fines since October 2024. This follows the expiration of its contract with Syntell, a road safety and fine management service provider. The contract officially ended on 30 September. Despite an initial extension until the end of that month, no new service provider has been appointed to take over the management of fines.

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As a result, EMPD has been left in a state of uncertainty. The department is unable to issue, process, or capture traffic fines.

Impact of Syntell’s Departure

Syntell also provides services for the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD). It was responsible for handling fine processing, warrants, summons, and automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) technology.

According to sources within the EMPD, the absence of a new contract has severely impacted operations. The department is currently incapable of enforcing fines, even though officers continue to stop motorists for traffic violations.

Plans for Internal Fine Management

An internal email from Ekurhuleni’s Chief Information Officer, sent on 8 January, detailed the city’s intention to internalize law enforcement through an Integrated Law Enforcement Management System (ILEMS). This system was originally scheduled to go live on 11 January. However, implementation has yet to take place.

When asked about the delay, acting EMPD chief Julius Mkhwanazi declined to comment. He stated only that the ILEMS system was still under development.

Ekurhuleni Metro Police Leadership Instability and Allegations

The situation is further aggravated by leadership instability within the department. EMPD remains divided after its former head, Isaac Mapiyeye, was suspended due to allegations of sexual harassment. Meanwhile, acting chief Mkhwanazi has come under scrutiny for allegedly distributing blue lights unlawfully. Reports also suggest he engaged in questionable deals on behalf of the city.

Controversial Dealings with Private Security

Reports indicate Mkhwanazi played a role in forging a memorandum of understanding. This agreement permitted a private security company, CAT VIP, to use EMPD vehicles. The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has recommended charges against Mkhwanazi. He is accused of enabling third parties to impersonate police officers.

Operational Challenges Facing EMPD

The EMPD is reportedly in a state of operational disarray. Internal sources indicate that broken-down vehicles and lack of maintenance hinder officers from performing their duties effectively. Political interference has further complicated matters. Officers are struggling to operate efficiently amid ongoing instability.

What This Means for Motorists

While the EMPD remains in limbo, motorists in the Ekurhuleni Metro are urged to continue adhering to traffic laws. Law enforcement officers are still stopping vehicles, even though fines cannot be processed. There is an urgent need for clarity regarding fines issued between November 2024 and the present. Motorists are uncertain about the validity of these fines.

Awaiting Official Statement

As of now, the Metro has yet to release an official statement addressing the crisis. However, a press release or briefing is anticipated to provide further information on the department’s legal standing and future course of action.