A Nairobi driver of a black Toyota Hilux recently caught the attention of motorists and social media users after being spotted using an unusual method to avoid detection by National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) speed cameras.

The driver had placed a piece of brown clothing over part of the vehicle's number plate. A fellow road user captured the image via her car mirror and shared it online, expressing surprise at the lengths some motorists go to evade speeding fines.

How NTSA Speed Cameras Work

NTSA’s Instant Fines System operates along major highways such as Thika Superhighway, Mombasa Road, and Southern Bypass. It employs Artificial Intelligence combined with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology to identify speeding vehicles. Once a vehicle is flagged, the system retrieves the registration details from the NTSA database and sends a penalty notice directly to the registered owner’s phone via SMS.

Obscuring the number plate, as seen in this case, could hinder the system’s ability to capture the plate number, potentially allowing drivers to avoid automated fines.

Legal Implications of Concealing Number Plates

Despite the creativity behind the tactic, covering or obstructing a number plate is illegal under Kenya's Traffic Act, Cap 403. Section 12 mandates that all vehicles must display identification plates in the prescribed manner at all times while on the road.

Attempting to conceal the plate to avoid a speeding ticket may result in additional penalties for violating the law on vehicle identification.

Public Reaction

  • Wanjohi Gichuhi: Advocated for responsible driving instead of evasive tactics.
  • Johnny Graphics: Mentioned other methods like shiny coatings or decorative lights near plates.
  • Kevo: Shared his use of a privacy number plate cover that obscures the plate from side angles but remains visible head-on.

This incident highlights both the innovative approaches some drivers use to bypass automated enforcement and the challenges faced by NTSA’s system in fully curbing traffic violations.