RTA taking steps to correct Black Ford Everest ownership issue

The Road Traffic Authority [RTA] says it is taking necessary steps to address the ownership issue of a black Ford Everest following the arrest of its Acting CEO, John Avira, by the Special Investigative Team over the procurement of the official vehicle for the CEO’s office.

In a statement, the Acting CEO said the acquisition of the vehicle was approved through formal processes, including endorsement by the RTA Board and the Department of Personnel Management, adding that the purchase was made in good faith and in line with the operational needs of the Authority.

He explains that it was the registration process that the car dealer mistakenly made by registering the vehicle under his name, which is an administrative oversight that was promptly identified and addressed.

The Acting CEO says a formal request was made to the car dealer to correct the registration and show RTA as the rightful owner.

Mr Avira said: "It's unfortunate this matter has been misrepresented by individuals with vested interests in the CEO appointment process, aimed at undermining my leadership and influencing the outcome currently before the National Executive Council."

Avira clearly stated that there was no intent to defraud the State, this was a procedural error, and all necessary steps have been taken to rectify it transparently and responsibly.