QuestionsQuestions (LTO MEMORANDUM)
Its purpose is to direct the confiscation and impoundment of illegally used license plates and stickers (particularly those reported lost), to prevent misleading of authorities, and to ensure proper investigation and filing of charges.
It was reported that certain license plates and stickers were lost, for which a general alarm had been issued by the Chief of the Law Enforcement Service, and there is concern they may be used by unscrupulous persons to mislead authorities.
Their use by unscrupulous persons to mislead authorities is considered illegal; therefore, their attachment to another vehicle is treated as unlawful.
They are directed to confiscate the number plates/stickers whenever they are found attached to another vehicle.
It requires that the plates/stickers be caused to be impounded, that a proper investigation be conducted, and that necessary charges be filed in appropriate courts.
It mandates documentation and reporting so the issuing office can monitor compliance, actions taken, and case status, ensuring accountability of enforcement units.
It signals that prosecutors/courts should be approached based on the strength of the evidence gathered during investigation, rather than charging automatically regardless of proof.
It refers to conducting sufficient fact-finding and evidence gathering regarding the illegal attachment/use of the lost plates/stickers, including identifying the responsible persons and circumstances that show illegality and intent.
It implies that depending on the nature of the offense and applicable penalties, cases should be filed in the correct judicial forum with proper jurisdiction and venue.
It treats confiscation/impoundment as preliminary enforcement steps to secure evidence and prevent continued misuse, while criminal/penal consequences are pursued through investigation and filing of charges in court.
While it mandates action upon finding illegal attachment, it still requires proper investigation and filing of charges only as evidence warrants, indicating the need for evidentiary basis for prosecution.
It targets the use of lost or illegally held plates/stickers to mislead authorities, which may involve falsification/illegal use of vehicle identification markers and related offenses depending on facts and evidence.
They should record the plate/sticker details, establish that it was among the lost items subject to the general alarm, document the vehicle it was found on, collect witness/officer reports, and preserve physical evidence for prosecution.
It emphasizes strict compliance: “For strict compliance,” indicating that the directives are not optional and should be followed closely by concerned personnel.