Unauthorised acts relating to vehicles
As the population in the City of Windhoek continues to increase, so does the vehicle population. However, with this growth comes an increase in offences related to road safety, posing a significant compromise to the safety of road users.
The influx of people and vehicles brings about challenges in maintaining order and adherence to traffic regulations, leading to a higher likelihood of accidents, injuries and even fatalities. The Windhoek City Police Service continues to address these challenges proactively through education, enforcement of traffic laws and fostering a culture of safety and responsibility on the roads.
The Windhoek City Police Service Regularly attends to reports and incidents relating to unauthorised acts in relation to vehicles. The Road Traffic and Transport Act (Act No.22 of 1999) defines unauthorised acts in relation to vehicles as actions taken without the proper permission or legal authority.
Using a vehicle without the owner’s consent, also known as unauthorised use of a vehicle or joyriding, is a common one, and it refers to the act of taking, operating or borrowing a vehicle without permission from the owner. This action is considered a criminal offence, as it involves the unauthorised use of someone else’s property.
Another unauthorised act, as stipulated in the Act, involves tampering with a vehicle. This implies actions such as altering the vehicle’s registration, licence plates, or vehicle identification number (VIN). It can also involve modifying the vehicle’s engine or other components in a way that violates regulations or safety standards. In addition, acts such as operating a vehicle in a manner that violates traffic laws or regulations also contribute to unauthorised acts in relation to a vehicle.
Other unauthorised acts that the Windhoek City Police Service has noted is tampering with a vehicle’s registration or its components, and making illegal modifications such as installing colourful lamps or super-tinted windows, just to mention but a few. Moreover, vehicle owners are also found operating vehicles in a manner that violates traffic laws, such as speeding, reckless and negligent driving, or driving under the influence of alcohol or substances with narcotic effects, which in itself is considered an unauthorised act. On the other hand, some vehicle owners are caught committing insurance fraud by providing false information or documents related to vehicle insurance for financial gains.
Notwithstanding the fact that some acts go unnoticed, it is important for all drivers and residents in Windhoek as well as general road users to understand these acts not only pose potential risks to public safety and the integrity of the transportation system, but a combination of these unauthorised acts translates to No Admission of Guilt (NAOG) offences, which lead to prosecution and further serious legal repercussions.
Other penalties for unauthorised acts can include fines, licence suspensions, vehicle impoundment, or even criminal charges. The Windhoek City Police Service will continue to closely monitor the situation to ensure transgressors are dealt with in line with provisions of the law. Subsequently, it is crucial for all vehicle owners, operators and the general public to be aware of and comply with the regulations outlined in the Road Traffic and Transport Act, 1999 (Act No. 22 of 1999). By doing so, we can ensure the safe and lawful use of vehicles on our roads, and contribute to a safer and more orderly community for everyone.
For any assistance with crime and traffic-related issues, do not hesitate to call the City Police Call Centre: 061-302 302/2902239 or SMS: 4444