AI Traffic System Dodger Arrested as Dhaka Police Tighten Enforcement Against Number Plate Fraud

A motorcyclist who attempted to evade Dhaka’s artificial intelligence (AI)-powered automated traffic signal monitoring system by concealing part of his vehicle’s registration number has been arrested following an extensive technical investigation by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP). After admitting his offense before a mobile court, he was sentenced to one month of simple imprisonment and fined Tk 2,000.

The development was confirmed on Tuesday, June 2, by Anisur Rahman, Additional Commissioner (Traffic) of DMP, during a press briefing held at the DMP Media Center on Minto Road in Dhaka.

According to DMP officials, at approximately 2:30 pm on May 19, 38-year-old motorcyclist Md. Lablu Haque deliberately covered the last three digits of his motorcycle’s registration plate with white adhesive tape while riding through the Kawran Bazar intersection under Tejgaon Police Station.

A photograph showing the partially concealed number plate later circulated widely on social media and came to the attention of DMP authorities on May 21, raising concerns among traffic enforcement officials. Police feared that if the tactic of deceiving AI-based traffic cameras became widespread, other motorists might attempt to replicate it.

Investigators faced significant challenges because the rider’s face was not clearly visible in the image. DMP’s City Intelligence and Analysis Division, with support from the Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime Unit (CTTC), conducted a detailed forensic investigation by analyzing CCTV footage from multiple locations across the capital, matching vehicle characteristics, and cross-referencing partially visible registration data.

Following the investigation, police arrested Lablu Haque, a resident of Lalbagh, on Monday. He was subsequently prosecuted under Section 72 of the Road Transport Act 2018, and the court imposed the sentence after the offense was proven.

Speaking at the briefing, Anisur Rahman emphasized that authorities are committed to building a modern, automated, and disciplined traffic management system comparable to those found in advanced countries.

“We want to establish a modern and orderly traffic system. Anyone attempting to circumvent advanced technology will face strict legal action,” he said.

He explained that while AI-powered cameras can automatically identify vehicle registration numbers and assist police in enforcing traffic regulations accurately, deliberately obscured or altered number plates can disrupt the effectiveness of the system.

To address the issue, DMP plans to launch a special enforcement drive targeting vehicles with unclear, damaged, distorted, or intentionally concealed registration plates. Authorities warned that future violations could result in legal action not only against drivers but also against vehicle owners.

In addition, offenders may face penalties under the demerit-point system, including automatic deductions from driving licence records and substantial financial fines in accordance with existing laws.

During the briefing, DMP representatives expressed appreciation to city residents for adapting quickly to the newly introduced AI-driven traffic management system.

According to police officials, while authorities initially estimated that implementing such a major change would require at least six months of public adjustment, noticeable improvements in traffic discipline have become evident within just 15 days.

Officials noted that even during the recent Eid holiday period, when traffic volumes were comparatively lower, motorists and pedestrians were observed voluntarily complying with traffic signals, particularly red lights.

DMP also reiterated that police personnel have been instructed to maintain the highest standards of professionalism and courtesy in dealing with the public. Authorities stressed that the primary objective of traffic enforcement is not punishment but public awareness and road safety.

However, officials warned that anyone attempting to disregard the law or undermine technological enforcement measures would face a strict zero-tolerance response.

Senior officers from various divisions of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police attended the press briefing.

DBTech/JNO/MUIM/OR