The public is well versed in the notoriety of the Florida Licensing Centre. Not a week goes by without reports of disturbing behaviour ranging from bribery, scamming and lawlessness outside the centre.
The upsurge in questionable characters punting illegal services outside the centre could well be explained by the withdrawal of a crime-prevention team that used to be stationed permanently at the centre. Management of the centre believed the situation was improving prior to the team’s withdrawal. JMPD does make regular visits to the centre but the illegal activity resumes as soon as the uniforms are no longer present.
Teddy Msimanga, Head of Licensing at the Roodepoort Driving Licence Testing Centre, stressed that under no circumstances is any official business conducted outside of the centre’s boundaries. “People must go straight inside. Do not speak to anyone in the street. All the information you need is inside the centre. An official will never ask you to exchange money in the street,” Msimanga assured.
“There is no shortcut through the process. It has to be thorough to ensure people are properly tested,” explained Msimanga, urging the public not to be tempted by illegal offers. Msimanga confirmed that anything purchased from the men on the street would be forgeries. “You can see the font sizes and unique codes are irregular,” he pointed out.
The centre offers free parking on the premises and the public is urged to bring the necessary copies of IDs and photographs themselves and not be tempted by the apparent convenience of traders outside the centre. Msimanga is adamant that utilising an informal trader leaves one open to being further harassed into transactions that have no credibility.
For those who question the integrity and competence of examiners, Msimanga assured that they are evaluated regularly. Learner drivers who fail their test have the right to appeal the decision within 14 days. The provincial department will assess the appeal and should the appeal be upheld, the learner will be retested at no extra cost. The provincial department keeps track of all appeals and when patterns emerge around individual examiners, action is taken.
When pressed on bribery and corruption, Msimanga urged the public to report any misconduct. “Internal affairs have the capacity to investigate. Offenders will be deregistered by the Province and red-flagged from further employment nationally,” he said.
To report any abuse, poor service and illegal activity, contact Msimanga at teddym@joburg.org.za.
