Steenokkerzeel (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Approximately 60 drivers in Steenokkerzeel have been erroneously fined by the Lesagestraat ANPR camera due to a software malfunction. Alderman Wim Mombaerts has confirmed that the issue is being rectified, reports 24brussels.
As reported by VRT News, the fines were issued to drivers in the province of Flemish Brabant who passed the ANPR camera intended to deter shortcut traffic during peak weekday hours. Only residents with a valid permit are authorized to use that route. However, a technical fault in the system resulted in several legitimate permit holders receiving fines.
Alderman for Mobility Wim Mombaerts (Klaver/N-VA) stated that the problem stemmed from an error in the software. He indicated that the fault has been addressed and emphasized that the system would undergo more frequent checks to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
What happened to the 60 Steenokkerzeel drivers wrongly fined by an ANPR camera?
Motorists who received fines in error are urged not to pay but to file a defense immediately. They should register on the Haviland website at www.haviland.be/gas. Officials have specified that drivers must provide their case number, vehicle registration, and a brief explanation of the error. Supporting documents, such as proof of a valid permit, should also be submitted. Upon receipt, Haviland will review the cases and cancel any fines issued in error.
The municipality of Steenokkerzeel has issued an apology following the incident. Alderman Mombaerts reiterated that the mistake occurred during a software update, which led to misreading several license plates.
This is not the first instance of camera-related errors in Belgium. In February 2024, numerous municipalities experienced issues with parking scan cars that mistakenly issued fines due to incorrect license plate readings. Additionally, in May 2025, concerns were raised in Grimbergen when the Flemish Supervisory Commission alerted the public that some ANPR cameras were not fully compliant with privacy regulations, prompting drivers to contest fines.
