Kampala, Uganda — The Ministry of Works and Transport has issued a public advisory urging motorists not to give in to criminals behind a growing number plate theft racket.
According to the Ministry, the scheme involves organised groups stealing vehicle number plates and later contacting owners to demand payment in exchange for information about their whereabouts. Officials described the practice as coordinated criminal activity designed to exploit unsuspecting vehicle owners.
Authorities cautioned that paying the demanded fees only fuels the illegal network and weakens ongoing law enforcement efforts to dismantle the syndicates.
Lawful Steps for Victims
Instead of negotiating with fraudsters, affected motorists have been advised to: report the theft immediately to the police, inform the relevant transport licensing authorities and apply for officially approved duplicate number plates through authorised channels.
The Ministry emphasised that obtaining replacement plates through proper procedures ensures accurate documentation and shields motorists from possible legal complications.
Security agencies have also warned that stolen number plates are sometimes used to conceal vehicles involved in criminal activity. The Uganda Police Force has pledged to track down those responsible and disrupt the operations of such groups across the country.
Officials say cooperation from the public will be critical in ending the scheme and safeguarding the integrity of Uganda’s vehicle registration system.
