'Ghost' number plates to making drivers invisible to the law

Some have argued that the fine for doding plate detection are not severe enough (stock image) (Image: Tim Graham/Getty Images)

Rogue drivers are evading the law by using "ghost" or "stealth" number plates that can't be picked up by speed and ANPR cameras, effectively rendering their vehicles 'invisible' to enforcement. These crafty plates allow them to escape fines for speeding, running red lights, and other dangerous behaviours.

A West Midlands MP is now demanding harsher penalties for those employing these deceptive plates. At present, culprits only face a £100 fine with no points on their licence, a stark contrast to the more severe consequences faced by speeders.

The alarming possibility is that plate tampering might be more widespread than believed, posing risks of unsafe driving and financial burdens on innocent motorists involved in accidents with untraceable cars not found in insurance databases. West Bromwich MP Sarah Coombes, addressing Parliament, has called for stronger action against fraudulent plates, Birmingham Live reports.

She expressed her concern: "This is a serious criminal issue. And at the moment, the penalties for covering up your number plate or changing it in some way is less than what you'd get for a speeding ticket.

"I know that most drivers in West Brom are just trying to get to work or drop their kids off at school. They are safe and careful drivers.

"But there are a select minority of people who think they are above the law."

The MP highlighted the issue, saying: "They think that by using a ghost plate they can get away with running red lights, drunk driving, ignoring speed limits and much, much worse." 

She also pointed out: "It can't be right that these drivers are not being caught by police for creating so much danger on our roads. The punishments need to be tougher."

Ms Coombes explained the crucial role of technology in road safety, declaring: "ANPR and the humble number plate is hot-wired into the UK's road safety."

She further warned those tampering with their plates, asserting: "If people think, by doctoring their plates, they can speed, drive without due care or without insurance to evade prosecution - then we need to remove this temptation. Innocent members of the public are being put at risk."