Police Hunt Motorists With Unpaid EPS Fines Ahead of Festive Season

What the report says

Traffic police in Uganda have begun operations to recover unpaid Express Penalty System (EPS) fines, with enforcement expected to continue as the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety increases road-safety checks ahead of the festive season. According to Nile Post, officers are targeting motorists who have outstanding penalties and are warning that leaving a vehicle parked will not prevent eventual enforcement.

Police spokesperson Michael Kananura urged drivers to review their records and settle any fines to avoid disruption. He said attempts to hide vehicles off the road are not a reliable way to avoid payment, because those vehicles may be detected again once they return to use. The police message is part of a wider campaign to improve compliance and road safety during a busy travel period.

The EPS is a digital traffic enforcement system used by the Uganda Police Force to record violations and issue penalties. The report said fines typically range from Shs20,000 to Shs200,000, while speeding under harmonised rates carries a flat Shs160,000 penalty. Motorists are usually given 28 days to pay, after which a 50% surcharge may apply. Nile Post also noted that the system has drawn criticism in the past over automated tickets and disputed fines.

Police did not give figures for how many motorists owe money or how much they hope to collect. Drivers can check penalties through the UPF Mobi App, SMS services, or traffic police offices, and may seek clarification if they believe a ticket is incorrect.