Man jailed, fined for covering number plate to evade AI traffic monitoring

Police have identified and arrested a motorcyclist who allegedly attempted to evade Dhaka's AI-based automated traffic surveillance system by concealing three digits of his motorcycle's registration plate.

The accused was tracked down through photographs and video footage of the incident and later confessed before a mobile court, according to Additional Commissioner (Traffic) of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), Anisur Rahman.

Speaking at a press briefing at the DMP Media Centre on Minto Road, Anisur Rahman said the offender was sentenced to one month's imprisonment and fined after admitting guilt before the court on Tuesday (June 2).

According to the DMP official, the motorcyclist was seen riding on roads in the capital on May 19 with three digits of his licence plate deliberately covered. Images of the incident later circulated widely on social media and were published by various media outlets.

The matter came to the attention of police on May 21, prompting an investigation amid concerns that similar deceptive tactics could spread among other road users.

"Had this method become popular, others might have attempted to evade enforcement in the same way. That is why we treated the matter seriously," he said.

Anisur Rahman noted that identifying the rider was particularly challenging because his face was not clearly visible in the photographs. Investigators reviewed and analyzed CCTV footage from multiple locations across the capital and cross-checked partially visible registration details with motorcycle records.

Following extensive analysis of surveillance footage, motorcycle characteristics and licence plate information, police identified the suspect on Monday as Lovlu Haque, 38, a resident of Lalbagh in Dhaka.

The DMP official said public cooperation has played a significant role in improving traffic discipline in the capital and that positive changes have already become visible on city roads.

He added that the police aim to establish a modern, automated and disciplined traffic management system comparable to those in developed countries.

"Anyone attempting to circumvent technology or violate traffic regulations will face legal action," he said.

Anisur Rahman further stated that while the DMP's primary objective is to encourage voluntary compliance with traffic laws rather than punish offenders, strict enforcement measures will be taken against violators.

He also said police officers have been instructed to maintain the highest standards of courtesy in dealing with citizens while remaining firm in enforcing the law.

According to the official, the DMP's technological capabilities have significantly improved, enabling investigators to detect violations and crimes through advanced CCTV analysis and other digital investigative tools.

At the briefing, the DMP Commissioner thanked city residents for their cooperation, saying the public had adapted to the new traffic management system much faster than expected.

"Police initially believed it would take at least six months to bring about this change. However, visible improvements have been observed within just 15 days," he said, noting that many motorists continued to follow traffic rules even during the Eid holiday period when traffic volume was relatively low.