Police are targeting vehicles with illegal number plates

Operation ABC123 will run throughout the summer and involve police officers from across the region.

A police spokesman said there were a growing number of plates being used which were customised in a way which made them difficult to read.

He said that could often result in stolen vehicles or those involved in crime not being identified.

Problems include repositioning the characters as well as having characters of the incorrect typeface, size, or colour.

Drivers may think we are being overly firm on this issue but that is simply not true Sgt Neil Fyfe

First time offenders will be issued with either a verbal or written warning to have their illegal number plates changed within 14 days.

If the plates have not been amended after that period offenders will be issued with a �30 fixed penalty.

Then the offence can ultimately be taken to court - bringing with it a maximum fine of �1,000.

In addition to this the DVLA will be notified and they have the power to withdraw any registration marks, even personalised plates that may have been paid for.

Hard to trace

Sgt Neil Fyfe said: "Drivers may think we are being overly firm on this issue but that is simply not true.

"While we recognise some drivers like to characterise their number plates, this can have an impact on our policing.

"If the vehicle is stolen then it may be harder to trace it or if it has been involved in a road traffic collision or carries dysfunctional parts then it can mean further investigations for police officers."