LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-President Peter Mutharika’s government has launched a nationwide crackdown targeting all vehicles operating without number plates.
Authorities say the surge in unregistered cars has become a major threat to public safety and is increasingly being used to facilitate criminal activities.
Directorate of Road Traffic and Safety Services (DRTSS) spokesperson Angellina Makwambe confirmed the development, stating that the operation is being conducted jointly with the Malawi Police Service.
She said the crackdown will focus on both brand-new vehicles that have not yet been registered and older vehicles whose owners have delayed the registration process.
According to Makwambe, the presence of unregistered cars on Malawian roads has created loopholes that criminals exploit to commit offences without easy traceability.
She stressed that proper vehicle identification is essential for the safety of road users and for effective law-enforcement operations.
The initiative forms part of a broader government strategy to strengthen compliance with road traffic regulations and curb lawlessness on the country’s roads.
Makwambe warned that owners found driving unregistered vehicles will face penalties, including fines and possible impoundment of their cars.
She further urged motorists to ensure their vehicles are duly registered and fitted with approved number plates before being driven on public roads.
The joint operation has already commenced and will continue until full compliance is achieved across the country.
Authorities say the campaign also aims to raise awareness on the importance of timely registration and the legal risks associated with non-compliance.
Government officials have reiterated that the crackdown is not punitive but a necessary measure to protect citizens from crime and reduce the abuse of untraceable vehicles.
Members of the public have been encouraged to report any suspicious unregistered vehicles to the nearest police station.
The government believes that the success of this operation will significantly enhance road safety, crime prevention, and accountability on Malawi’s highways.