THE Road Traffic Authority (RTA), National Capital District PMV owners, and NCD-Central police have agreed to work together to improve road safety and ensure traffic laws are followed in the capital.
PMV owners, led by president Jack Waso, raised concerns about some police officers and RTA traffic officers demanding illegal fines, impounding vehicles unfairly, and using unauthorised storage locations.
RTA acting chief executive officer John Avira welcomed the discussions and expressed his support for PMV operators.
“As long as I am here, I want to work with PMV owners and taxi operators because I support the local industry and local content in the passenger transport service,” Avira said.
They also highlighted delays in vehicle registration and licensing, and called for improvements within the RTA to speed up these processes.
However, Avira also reminded PMV owners to meet all legal requirements, including registering their association properly and providing necessary documents such as their constitution.
“I am still waiting for your PMV Association constitution. The Public Transport Committee needs a legitimate representative,” he said.
NCD-Central Police Commander Assistant Commissioner Benjamin Turi emphasised that the joint operation between police and RTA was aimed at improving safety for all road users.
He confirmed that vehicles impounded during operations would be kept at the RTA Impound Yard at the 8-Mile-ATS Junction.
Owners will be required to pay traffic infringement notice (TIN) fines and update their registrations before retrieving their vehicles.
Turi also warned that vehicles left too long in the yard would incur storage fees or even be disposed of at the owner’s cost.
Turi urged drivers to report any police officers who illegally confiscated keys or leave vehicles stranded.
During the meeting, PMV operators were reminded not to overcharge school children despite rising fuel prices.
They welcomed the ongoing joint operations, saying it has helped free up roads and bus stops from illegal operators.
The PMV owners also suggested that future meetings should include the Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (ICCC) and Motor Vehicle Insurance Limited to address concerns about fare increases, insurance costs, and registration fees.
