I have just been stopped at a ‘routine’ metro traffic check in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, 6th May 2011, 10:45. This happened on Smit Street between Eendracht and Henri Street. The metro traffic cop (had no name or badge) who stopped me had advised me that my break lights were not working, and wanted to fine me R500 for this. After telling me this, he then proceeded to walk around my car, and then come back to the driver’s window. He then asked what WE should do about the matter? And I asked him what he would like to do? So I suggested that I get let of with a warning, because I did not know that my break lights were not working. The metro cop then walked to the passenger door, opened it and searches my car whilst still asking me how we can solve the matter? I said that I did not know, because I’m a student. He then asked, “don’t you have anything? Not even food for me?”. After replying no again, he let me go...
Now I would like to know, how to I go about blowing the whistle on this matter, because if it was not me he caught, I wonder how many possible bribes that these cops are making off motorists? This is quite shocking to have experienced and I am still flabbergasted at what happened. I can’t believe what has happened, in light of the upcoming elections. I would like to be a responsible citizen and Lead SA.
*In having written this I went back to the place I got stopped to try and sneak a picture... to my surprise they were already gone! But I have learnt my lesson, and when a situation like this arises, I must act quick, make use of my phone camera and video. I must be a responsible citizen journalist. I will not stand down and be a person that merely complains.
