New police team to crack down on illegal number plates across England
It will bring together forces across England to target organised crime groups and drivers who dodge fines.
A new police initiative aims to tackle illegal number plates across England, according to the government. The newly-formed National Roads Policing Coordination Centre (NRPCC) will bring together data and intelligence from police forces nationwide, enhanced by cutting-edge technology. This includes specialized goggles designed to detect number plates obscured by dirt or tampering, making it harder for criminals to avoid detection.
Illegal number plates, often used by organized crime groups, allow them to move stolen goods and evade penalties like speeding, parking, and clean air zone fines. The fines for displaying incorrect or missing number plates can reach up to £1,000. Such plates are made in various ways, including cloned plates that mirror legitimate vehicle registrations and ghost plates, which employ transparent films to evade camera detection.
Driving with non-compliant number plates makes it more challenging for law enforcement to track stolen vehicles or those linked to criminal activities. Sarah Jones, the Policing and Crime Minister, emphasized that illegal number plates are not a victimless crime. They serve as tools for criminals to evade detection, transport illicit goods, and outwit law enforcement. By coordinating efforts and leveraging technology, the NRPCC aims to apprehend offenders more swiftly and dismantle criminal networks.
Ch Supt Marc Clothier, the deputy national coordinator for the NRPCC, highlighted the effectiveness of a targeted, intelligence-led approach demonstrated by police forces involved in the ghost plates operation. This strategy not only helps in catching offenders but also educates and assists drivers in maintaining compliant number plates.
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