The Rivers State Police Command has launched a statewide enforcement operation targeting vehicles with covered, obscured, defaced, unauthorized, or missing registration number plates. This initiative aims to strengthen security and curb criminal activities.
Directive from Inspector-General
The exercise, which began yesterday, follows a directive from the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, and is designed to enhance public safety and deny criminals the opportunity to conceal their identities while carrying out unlawful acts.
Spokesperson for the command, ASP Agabe Kaborlo, stated that the operation is being coordinated by the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju. He has directed all area commanders and divisional police officers across the state to begin immediate implementation of the directive.
Broader Security Efforts
The command explained that the enforcement exercise forms part of broader efforts by the Nigeria Police Force to improve security surveillance and ensure that all vehicles operating on public roads can be properly identified.
Under the new directive, any vehicle found with covered, obscured, altered, unauthorized, or completely absent registration number plates will be impounded. Owners and drivers of such vehicles will be prosecuted in accordance with existing laws.
Security Concerns
Police authorities noted that obscured or concealed number plates have increasingly become a security concern, as they make it difficult for law enforcement agencies to identify vehicles linked to criminal activities, traffic violations, or other offences.
The command urged all motorists and vehicle owners in Rivers State to ensure that their registration number plates are properly fixed, clearly visible, and free from any form of obstruction or alteration. It further warned that failure to comply with the directive could result in arrest, impoundment of the vehicle, and possible prosecution.
Professional Conduct and Rights
The police reassured residents that the enforcement operation would be conducted within the bounds of the law and with due respect for citizens’ rights. To prevent abuses, the commissioner has directed officers assigned to the operation to carry out their duties professionally and lawfully. He insisted that the enforcement exercise must not be used as a platform for harassment, intimidation, or extortion of members of the public.
The command further warned that any officer found engaging in misconduct, unprofessional behavior, or extortion would face strict disciplinary measures. It reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order across the state through proactive policing strategies to enhance public confidence in the security agencies.
