Exclusive data has revealed how illegal number plates are becoming an increasing issue on West Midlands roads.

It means reckless drivers can speed, run red light and perform other dangerous manoeuvres without being caught.

Data obtained under freedom of information laws shows illegal number plate offences have risen over recent years in the West Midlands, says Birmingham Live.

The total number of plates which failed to “conform with regulations” in 2022 was 256, rising to 305 in 2023 and 590 last year. These may not all have involved ghost plates, but gives an indication of how illegal plates are becoming an increasing issue. Number plates can be cloned, made unreadable or altered relatively easily.

The MP for West Bromwich, Sarah Coombes, is leading a campaign for tougher punishments for offenders.

Currently, drivers face a £100 fine but no penalty points.

Ms Coombes told the Commons recently: “This is a serious criminal issue. And at the moment, the penalties for covering up your number plate or changing it in some way is less than what you’d get for a speeding ticket.

“They think that by using a ghost plate they can get away with running red lights, drunk driving, ignoring speed limits and much, much worse.”It can’t be right that these drivers are not being caught by police for creating so much danger on our roads.

“The punishments need to be tougher.”