Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi

Udupi, Oct 15: An illegal whiteboard car rental racket was busted in Udupi after the Udupi District Taximen and Maxicab Association (Regd), Malpe unit filed a formal complaint with local authorities.

The Malpe police, acting on the tip-off, unearthed a fleet of 18 private vehicles allegedly being used for unauthorised commercial rentals.

The complaint, addressed to police sub-inspector Anil Kumar D of Malpe police station, alleged that several individuals in Malpe andUdupi have been offering private (whiteboard) cars for rent without the mandatory permits from the transport department.

Acting on credible information, PSI Anil Kumar D and his team conducted a raid at Belkale Hiranyadhama Layout in Tenkanidiyoor village, where 18 whiteboard vehicles were discovered parked at the residence of R Rasheed, son of Kasim.

During initial questioning, Rasheed reportedly admitted to renting out the vehicles but was unable to produce any official permits or documents authorising him to operate a commercial rental service.

Following the raid, a case was registered at Malpe police station under Crime No. 113/2025, invoking Sections 192(A), 66, and 187 of the Indian Motor Vehicles Act (IMV Act). These provisions address the unauthorised commercial use of private vehicles, operation without valid permits, and violation of transport norms.

“The use of private vehicles for commercial purposes without proper authorisation is a serious offence. We will continue taking strict action against such illegal operators,” said an officer familiar with the investigation.

Police have warned that further enforcement drives will be carried out, and any individual or group found flouting the law will face legal consequences.

Authorities have also appealed to vehicle owners in the region to comply with all transport regulations and secure valid permits before engaging in any form of vehicle rental business.