Traffic officers with body cameras might become a reality
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) said it would evaluate licensing and the renewal processes in order to get rid of “bribery and corruption” – as part of their proposed resolutions drawn up after the National Traffic Indaba last week.
At the Indaba, the traffic law fraternity put forward to the RTMC that officers who wear body cameras, “limit human interference and monitor officer and road user behaviour to eliminate bribery and corruption”.
Justice Project South Africa’s (JPSA) Howard Dembovsky said the introduction of body cameras has been long overdue.
“There is no better evidence than video evidence. If the offender offers a bribe, the video makes for wonderful evidence, especially if the driver is under the influence.”
Another priority is the clamp down on counterfeit licenses to prevent crashes by drivers who are not qualified to drive.
“At a roadblock, an unroadworthy vehicle can be seen, but it is very hard to identify a licence that was issued by a corrupt official from a licensing department,” said Dembovsky.
Another focus for RTMC is those who drink and drive. Officers called that those who are caught driving under the influence spend “several days in custody” before applying for bail.
Dembovsky remains optimistic about these proposed changes. “At the next Indaba, let’s see how many resolutions they have done. The proof of the pudding is in the eating. Show us progress.”
Before the end of the Indaba, Kwa-Zulu Natal MEC for Transport Mxolisi Kaunda said the body cameras are being considered.
“Body-worn video cameras for law enforcement officers to help in fighting corruption and improve the handling of evidence for successful prosecution,” said Kaunda.
Source: The Mercury