A vehicle seized by Dubai Police after the owner tampered with the number plate. DUBAI POLICE

Dubai Police has seized 23 vehicles whose drivers deliberately altered or obscured their number plates in an attempt to deceive traffic monitoring systems and evade fines, authorities confirmed. Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police, said that the violations were detected through intensified monitoring of both internal and external roads last year. "These individuals used various methods to tamper with their plates, including applying chemical substances, bending the plates, or adding stickers to obscure numbers," Al Mazrouei explained. "Such actions are considered fraud and are treated as criminal offenses, not just traffic violations." One of the most alarming cases involved a young driver who was caught on video deliberately removing his vehicle’s number plate before committing multiple dangerous infractions. "This individual ran a red light, exceeded speed limits, and engaged in reckless stunts, reaching speeds of over 190 km/h," he added. In another case, a driver was caught spraying a chemical substance onto his plate to make it appear as if his vehicle had a two-digit registration number. These manipulations were flagged by Dubai Police’s advanced surveillance systems, leading to the immediate confiscation of the vehicles. Under Dubai Traffic Law, individuals found guilty of such offenses must pay a Dh50,000 fine to retrieve their impounded vehicles. "We deal strictly with manipulators," Al Mazrouei emphasized. "Anyone attempting to alter their plates should be aware that they face serious legal consequences, including criminal charges." Dubai Police are urging the public to help curb such offenses by reporting suspicious activities through the Police Eye service available on the Dubai Police app or by calling the We Are All Police initiative at 901. Authorities continue to monitor the emirate’s roads through AI-powered smart cameras, ensuring compliance with traffic laws and taking swift action against violators. ICA/Expat Media
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