Traffic Police Probe Fake Number Plate Scam in Karachi – 2026 Update
An alarming case of fake number plates and wrongful e-challans has surfaced in Karachi, raising serious concerns about traffic monitoring systems and misuse of vehicle registration numbers. The incident has prompted the traffic police to launch a formal probe after multiple citizens reported receiving e-challans for violations they never committed.
This case highlights how criminals are using fake number plates to avoid traffic fines, while innocent vehicle owners are being wrongly penalized.
Fake E-Challan Issued to Innocent Citizen
The issue came to light when a Karachi resident, Talha Ahmed, received an e-challan near Governor House for riding a motorcycle without wearing a helmet.
What Made the Case Shocking?
- Talha Ahmed’s motorcycle was parked inside his home garage
- He was not riding at the time of the alleged violation
- The motorcycle shown in the challan did not belong to him
- The rider visible in the footage was not Talha Ahmed
The number plate used by the violator was a fake plate carrying Talha’s real registration number.
How Fake Number Plates Are Being Used
According to initial findings, traffic law violators are using duplicate or fake number plates to escape fines and legal action.
Key Details
- Fake plates carry real registration numbers
- Challans are issued automatically via cameras
- Innocent citizens receive fines without being present
- Offenders easily move across cities and provinces
This method allows violators to avoid responsibility, while genuine vehicle owners face stress and inconvenience.
Traffic Police Response & Helpline Process
Traffic police officials have clarified that affected citizens should not panic.
What To Do If You Receive a Wrong E-Challan
- Call the helpline number mentioned on the e-challan
- Submit proof that your vehicle was not involved
- The challan will be cancelled
- Authorities will initiate action against the actual offender
Officials assured that once verified, wrong fines are removed, and investigations begin against those using fake plates.
Not an Isolated Incident – Multiple Victims Reported
This is not the first case of its kind.
Another Shocking Example
- A citizen received two e-challans of Rs. 10,000 each
- Both fines were for not wearing a seat belt
- Challans were issued within 25 days
- The car had been parked at home for a long time
Even more concerning:
- The citizen’s car was a 1987 model
- The vehicle in the challan images was brand new
This confirmed that the violator was using a fake number plate linked to an old vehicle.
Fake Plate Used Across Provinces
Investigations revealed that the same fake number plate had been used across two provinces.
Timeline of Violations
- November 23 – Challan issued near Punjab Chowrangi
- December 18 – Challan issued at Hub Toll Plaza
- The vehicle reportedly travels between Sindh and Balochistan
This suggests an organized misuse of fake plates rather than random incidents.
Legal & Public Safety Concerns
The misuse of fake number plates creates serious problems:
Major Risks
- Innocent citizens face fines and legal trouble
- Criminals evade law enforcement
- Traffic data becomes unreliable
- Trust in automated e-challan systems declines
If not controlled, this practice could undermine traffic enforcement nationwide.
What Authorities Are Planning Next
Traffic police are reportedly working on:
- Improved number plate verification systems
- Better camera accuracy
- Stronger coordination between provinces
- Action against number plate forgers
Citizens are also advised to regularly check e-challans issued against their vehicle numbers.
Public Advice – How to Stay Safe
To protect yourself:
- Check your vehicle number regularly online
- Report suspicious challans immediately
- Ensure your own number plate is standard and legal
- Keep vehicle parking proof if possible
Final Words
The fake number plate scam in Karachi has exposed serious gaps in traffic enforcement systems. While technology has made traffic monitoring efficient, it has also opened doors for misuse.
Timely reporting by citizens like Talha Ahmed has helped uncover this issue. With proper investigation, stronger checks, and public awareness, authorities can curb this growing problem.
Until then, citizens are urged to stay alert, verify challans, and report fraud immediately.
Fake Number Plate Scam in Karachi (2026) – FAQs
1. What is the fake number plate scam in Karachi?
The fake number plate scam involves traffic violators using duplicate or fake number plates with real registration numbers to avoid paying fines. As a result, innocent vehicle owners receive e-challans for violations they never committed.
2. How was the fake number plate scam discovered?
The scam came to light when a citizen received an e-challan for riding without a helmet, even though his motorcycle was parked at home. The vehicle in the footage had a fake plate using his registration number.
3. Where did this incident take place?
The incident occurred in Karachi, with challans issued near areas like Governor House, Punjab Chowrangi, and Hub Toll Plaza.
4. What should I do if I receive a wrong e-challan?
If you receive a wrong e-challan:
Contact the helpline number mentioned on the e-challan
Provide proof that your vehicle was not involved
The traffic police will cancel the fine
Action will be taken against the actual offender
5. Can wrong e-challans be canceled?
Yes. Traffic police officials have confirmed that wrong e-challans are canceled after verification, and innocent citizens will not be forced to pay fines.
