PATHANAMTHITTA: In a recent operation conducted by the Motor Vehicle Department, a two-wheeler with a masked number plate was seized. A case was registered against another vehicle for displaying an unclear number plate and altered appearance. Both vehicles were owned by students from Kunnanthanam.

The accused individuals admitted to intentionally hiding their registration numbers to evade detection by AI cameras. MVD officials have announced that fines totalling over Rs 20,000 will be imposed on each vehicle, accompanied by recommended license suspensions.

Authorities further revealed that they would share the information with the police and excise departments to determine if these vehicles have been involved in any other serious crimes. Notably, if the violation had been captured on camera, the penalty would have amounted to just Rs 500. Due to their attempt to avoid detection, the owners now face substantial fines.

The operation was carried out by a team comprising Shameer M, Manu Vishwanath, Swathi Dev and Sabu S under the leadership of Inspector Anish P V from the Pathanamthitta Enforcement Section of the Motor Vehicle Department.

Over the past month alone the enforcement department has seized approximately 100 bikes in the district, resulting in fines amounting to INR 3.5 lakh.