DA MPL and Gauteng spokesperson for community safety, Michael Sun has demanded the abolition of revenue-based policing targets imposed on Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) officers.
“Officers have reliably informed us that they are under pressure to each collect at least R7,000 in traffic fines daily. This effectively turns law enforcement into a revenue-generating system rather than a public safety service,” Sun said.
He argued that this policy puts motorists in a position where they can easily become targets for officers under pressure to meet their quotas. “This pushes JMPD officers to aggressively pursue fines instead of focusing on their duties, such as bylaw enforcement, traffic management, and crime prevention,” he added.
The spokesperson highlighted that some JMPD operations, particularly frequent roadblocks at high-traffic intersections, are designed to maximize fine collection rather than ensure road safety or enforce laws. “While disturbing, these revelations coincide with the common sight in Johannesburg, where the JMPD is increasingly engaging in indiscriminate and excessive roadblocks,” Sun said.
He further claimed that some JMPD operations are non-compliant with the National Road Traffic Act and the South African Police Service Standing Orders. “By reclassifying illegal roadblocks as ‘roadside checks’, JMPD evades crucial legal requirements, including proper authorisation by a senior officer, clear signage, and adequate warning to motorists,” he said. “These legally indefensible roadside checks exist solely to extract revenue from struggling motorists, many of whom are already facing economic hardship.”
Sun emphasized that the quotas do not contribute to regulating traffic flow, reducing accidents, or ensuring public safety. “Instead, they foster abuse, selective enforcement, and an erosion of public trust. A DA-led Gauteng provincial government would put an end to revenue-based policing quotas, restoring integrity to JMPD operations,” he said.
When contacted for comment, JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla said, “Your enquiry has been noted. I will revert back to you as soon as possible.”
The DA has called on the Gauteng premier to intervene and eliminate these quotas to refocus policing efforts on protecting communities.
