The Road Traffic Authority (RTA) has suspended all cash payments for road traffic offences, warning road users and enforcement officers that only electronic payments are permitted.
Acting Chief Executive Officer John Avira said any motorist issued with a Traffic Infringement Notice (TIN) by an RTA Traffic Enforcement Officer (TEO) must pay the fine using EFTOS machines only.
“Any road user served with a TIN must make payment using the EFTOS machines provided at the road check,” Mr Avira said. “If EFTOS facilities are not available at the checkpoint, the road user must take the TIN to an RTA office and make payment using EFTOS there.”
He stressed that cash payments are strictly prohibited under all circumstances and that motorists must insist on receiving an official receipt showing the amount paid and the date of payment.
Mr Avira urged road users to be aware of their rights and to report any officer who demands cash payments.
“Anyone whose rights are infringed through forced cash payments must note the name of the TEO, the time of the incident, and report the matter to the Officer-in-Charge at the nearest RTA office,” he said.
The Acting CEO was responding to social media allegations that some road users in Lae—which serves as the RTA’s Momase Regional Office—had been fined in cash without being issued TINs or receipts.
Mr Avira confirmed that two EFTOS machines have been secured for Lae, with one specifically designated for use at road checkpoints by traffic enforcement officers.
“As the Road Traffic Authority, we are mandated to enforce traffic laws and regulations. However, none of our officers are above the law,” he said. “Any TEO found soliciting money under the guise of traffic enforcement will be dealt with severely, including termination of employment where warranted.”
Mr Avira reaffirmed the RTA’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and fair enforcement of traffic laws nationwide.