FRAUDULENT TRAFFIC FINES TARGET DRIVERS

Wed 01 October 2025:

Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA) Spokesperson Monde Mkalipi warns against paying through suspicious links or unauthorised platforms as the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) system rolls out nationally.

He cautioned that fraudulent “ghost fines” are already targeting motorists ahead of the implementation.

The RTIA has raised concerns about fraudsters taking advantage of motorists’ lack of awareness. Scammers have been sending out fake fines and payment requests, often through email or SMS, in an attempt to trick road users into making payments.

“We should be very much concerned … some might want to hijack the system and send fraudulent documents to infringers or to road users.”

Mkalipi emphasised that road users should not take correspondence at face value but must verify its authenticity with the RTIA. The agency has positioned itself as the first point of reference for traffic fine queries.

“It’s quite critical for the road users to come and find out from us as the Road Traffic Infringement Agency.”

The spokesperson highlighted the growing problem of emails and calls demanding immediate payments, which often lead unsuspecting motorists into scams.

He urged drivers not to panic when they receive such messages but to confirm with the RTIA first.

“Some road users do receive some emails to say … you owe fines, click here to pay. We are really calling upon road users not to fall for such scams.”

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Phased Rollout of AARTO

The AARTO system will be introduced gradually nationwide. The first phase will begin on 1 December 2025 in 69 jurisdictions before expanding to 144 jurisdictions by April 2026.

Mkalipi explained that the points demerit system will only come into effect on 1 September 2026, giving motorists time to adjust.

From December, motorists will also have access to several options for managing fines. These include contesting an infringement, paying at a 50% discount within 32 days, arranging instalments, or nominating the actual driver responsible.

Mkalipi added that motorists must only use payment platforms approved by the RTIA. He noted that using unverified channels often results in motorists still being flagged for outstanding fines.

“It has happened before … road users make use of platforms not approved by the RTIA, they make payments there and … still find that their traffic fines are there.”

Mkalipi urged the public to remain alert as fraudulent activity is expected to rise with the rollout, stressing that vigilance and verification are the best tools for protection.

“Please make sure that we don’t fall into scams. Let’s make use of our legit payment platforms … at all times.”