Controversy has erupted on social media and in the streets of the country: citizens are reporting that police officers are now issuing fines with electronic terminals on the spot, but what seemed like modernization… is now generating total distrust.
According to multiple accounts, several police officers nationwide are stopping drivers for alleged infractions and, instead of issuing a traditional ticket, they pull out a portable terminal to collect payment immediately via credit or debit card. So far, everything would seem legal… but then comes the worrying part.
“What if that money doesn’t reach where it’s supposed to?” is the question many are asking, since some citizens claim that these terminals don’t have official logos or clear identification of belonging to any state or federal agency.
“They charged me right there, but I never saw that it was a government terminal… it looked like a personal one,” commented one affected motorist.
¿No me digas qué no te dan tu cuota @OHarfuch? para campaña de @Claudiashein
— Sra. Presidenta (@Werattors) October 19, 2022
¡Aproveche!
Mordidas a meses sin interés! pic.twitter.com/zrdZWwWnKL
Experts warn that while digital toll collection could reduce corruption, the lack of regulation, oversight, and transparency could lead to the opposite: abuses, improper charges, and even fraud.
So far, authorities have not issued a clear statement on the use of these terminals, nor have they confirmed whether all the devices used by officers are officially registered.
Meanwhile, fear is growing among drivers, who now not only fear being fined… but also not knowing where their money is going.
RECOMMENDATION: If you encounter a situation like this, ask for official identification, check the terminal’s information, and request a valid tax receipt.
Is this modernization or a new method of abuse?
With information from Azteca Noticias
