Karachi police issue deadline to replace illegal number plates

Police in Karachi have given motorists until December 5 to replace illegal or unreadable number plates, warning that vehicles will be seized after the deadline as part of a citywide enforcement campaign.

The move follows directives issued by Additional Inspector General Javed Alam Odho, who ordered “strict and indiscriminate action” against vehicles using forged or unidentifiable plates. Police said citizens must ensure their vehicle and motorcycle number plates comply with legal requirements by the deadline, otherwise impounded vehicles will only be released following legal proceedings.

Karachi Police spokesperson said the campaign is aimed at curbing the widespread use of tampered plates, which has increased since the introduction of the e-challan system. “Many citizens have removed or concealed their plates to avoid fines,” the spokesperson said.

Inspector Muhammad Yousuf Mehr, Station House Officer of Orangi Town, told The Express Tribune that police will strictly implement the new orders. “Every police station conducts snap-checking in its jurisdiction,” he said. “After December 5, all vehicles and motorcycles will be stopped to check whether the plates displayed are illegal or unidentifiable.”

Also Read: Work on Green Line extension project resumes in Karachi

Mehr said complaints have risen about motorists who do not mount their plates at all, or use plates with incomplete or altered digits. He added that during checks, police will demand the vehicle's documents. Registration numbers, engine numbers and chassis numbers will be verified through the Excise Department’s online portal or the CPLC. “We will ensure the vehicle is clear,” he said.

Officers will also verify the identity of the driver using the Tasdeeq biometric app, which reveals personal details and any criminal record. “If the vehicle or motorcycle is stolen, the person will be arrested under the registered case and the vehicle will be seized,” he said. Suspicious or unidentifiable plates will lead to seizure under Section 550 of the Criminal Procedure Code. Vehicles can be released only after legal proceedings are completed.

Mehr said that if a vehicle is clear but the driver has a criminal record, “further action will be taken according to the law.” Police believe the crackdown will help improve security and curb rising incidents of vehicle and motorcycle theft in Karachi. The enforcement drive will formally begin on December 6. “There will be strict action against anyone who does not comply with the law,” he maintained.