Kollam: The widespread issue of fake number plates on vehicles has been coming to light following a recent single-day inspection (combing) by the Kerala police. During this comprehensive check across police station limits, authorities were alarmed to find hundreds of vehicles with fake or tampered number plates.
Common violations found
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The inspection revealed numerous violations, including vehicles without registration numbers, fake number plates, incorrect display of licence plates, and instances where the numbers were obscured and difficult to read. Many of these vehicles are suspected of being used for evading tax and smuggling goods, particularly in areas near the Tamil Nadu border. Reports indicate that some vehicles travel 30 to 40 kilometres into Kerala to collect illegal items, including scrap parts.
AI camera detection
The Motor Vehicle Department’s AI camera footage has confirmed the widespread installation of fake number plates. Many vehicle owners only realise their plates have been tampered when they receive fines for violations they did not commit. The Department of Motor Vehicles has reported an increase in complaints related to this issue.
Incidents on the rise
According to the Motor Vehicle Department, more than 150 vehicles with fake number plates are identified each month by the surveillance cameras. The actual number of violations may be even higher, as many incidents go unreported. Unfortunately, the department and police often struggle to detect these fakes, leading to innocent vehicle owners receiving notices and fines.
Connection to illegal activities
Fake number plates are often associated with illegal activities, including drug trafficking and other crimes. In response to rising complaints, the DGP has ordered a thorough investigation into this matter. Given the high number of fake number plates found, more state-wide inspections are planned to address the issue more effectively.
Published: 04 Nov 2024, 11:22 am IST
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