A text message service Johannesburg motorists used to check for outstanding traffic offences has been scrapped and replaced with an advanced and "much inclusive" online service, Johannesburg metro police said on Wednesday.

Spokesperson Superintendent Wayne Minnaar said motorists could log on to www.payfine.co.za to view and pay their outstanding traffic fines.

"The 36997 sms service was discontinued on June 13. Motorists can now go on-line, view images of their cars photographed either speeding or jumping traffic lights, then pay for the fine on-line."

He encouraged motorists to register with the website to be able to have full access to their traffic offence information.

To register, motorists will have to supply their identity numbers, he said.

"Registration is free of charge but those who do not have access to Internet can simply walk to our officers to enquire about their traffic fines." - Sapa

story by   www.iol.co.za