Motorcyclist jailed, fined for covering number plate to evade AI-run traffic cameras in Dhaka

A motorcyclist has been sentenced to one month's imprisonment and fined Tk2,000 for covering part of his motorcycle's number plate in an attempt to evade Dhaka's newly introduced AI-based traffic monitoring system.

The offender, identified as Lablu Haque, 38, of Lalbagh, was tracked down and arrested by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) following an investigation.

Speaking at a press briefing at the DMP Media Centre in Minto Roadtoday (2 June), DMP Additional Commissioner (Traffic) Anisur Rahman said the incident took place on 19 May.

He said the rider was seen travelling through the capital with the last three digits of his motorcycle's registration plate concealed with white adhesive tape.

The image later circulated widely on social media and was published by several media outlets, drawing the attention of police on 21 May.

"Had this deceptive tactic spread, others might have been encouraged to follow suit. That is why we treated the matter seriously and launched an investigation," Anisur Rahman said.

He said identifying the rider was particularly challenging because his face was not clearly visible in the image. Investigators collected and analysed CCTV footage from different parts of the city, matched motorcycle characteristics and cross-checked partially visible registration details.

With support from the Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime (CTTC) unit, police eventually identified the suspect after analysing footage from multiple locations and verifying the motorcycle's registration details. He was arrested on Monday.

The DMP official said the accused was produced before a special magistrate's court, which sentenced him to one month's imprisonment and imposed a Tk2,000 fine.

Warning of strict enforcement against traffic violations, Anisur Rahman said DMP would not tolerate attempts to circumvent technology-driven traffic monitoring systems.

"Our objective is not to punish people but to raise awareness. We want road users to comply with traffic laws voluntarily. However, anyone who deliberately violates the law will face strict legal action," he said.

He also noted that cooperation from city residents has contributed to visible improvements in traffic discipline across the capital in recent weeks.

"We want to build an automated and disciplined traffic management system similar to those in developed countries. But if anyone attempts to deceive the technology, legal action will be taken against them," he added.