Sergeant Nqobizwe Shipanga
The City of Windhoek has noted a growing number of cases in which vehicle owners alter their vehicles, particularly by changing their colour, without complying with the required legal procedures. This trend is especially prevalent among public transport operators.
Such alterations, when done without proper authorisation, contravene the Road Traffic and Transport Regulations, as promulgated under Government Notice No. 3 of 2001. Regulation 44 states: “If a vehicle is altered or rebuilt to the extent that its licence disc no longer accurately reflects its description, the licence and disc automatically become void on the date the alteration is completed. The vehicle must then undergo a new licensing process.”
In addition, Regulation 11 requires that all vehicles in Namibia be registered with the appropriate registering authority, namely the Namibia Traffic Information System (NaTIS). Once any alteration is made, the owner is legally obligated to inform the registering authority so that the vehicle’s records and licence disc can be updated to reflect its current particulars.
Law enforcement officials have intercepted several vehicles that were altered without compliance with these requirements. There is concern that failure to relicense altered vehicles may be used to conceal unlawful activities. Authorities will take appropriate enforcement action against offenders, which may include the impounding of vehicles. Vehicle owners are, therefore, strongly advised to consult the registering authority before or immediately after making any alterations. It remains the vehicle owner’s legal responsibility to ensure the vehicle is properly relicensed. Failure to comply may result in penalties and other legal consequences.
To report any suspicious activities or suspected unauthorised vehicle alterations, contact the Windhoek City Police Service on 061 302 302 or send an SMS to 4444.
*Sergeant Nqobizwe Shipanga represents the Public Relations and Community Policing Section at the Windhoek City Police Service.