…Warns offenders of impoundment, prosecution as statewide enforcement takes effect

The Rivers State Police Command has announced the commencement of a statewide enforcement operation targeting vehicles with covered, obscured, defaced, unauthorized or missing registration number plates, in a move aimed at strengthening security and curbing criminal activities across the state.

The exercise, which takes effect from Monday, June 15, 2026, follows a directive from the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, designed to enhance public safety and deny criminals the opportunity to conceal their identities while carrying out unlawful acts.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo, the operation will be coordinated by the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Olugbenga Adepoju, who has directed all Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers across the state to begin immediate implementation of the directive.

The Command stated 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, while owners and drivers of such vehicles will face prosecution in accordance with existing laws.

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 and other offences.

The Command therefore 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 warned that failure to comply with the directive could result in arrest, impoundment of the vehicle and possible prosecution.

“The Rivers State Police Command urges all vehicle owners and motorists in the state to ensure that their registration number plates are properly affixed, clearly visible and free from any form of obstruction or alteration in order to avoid arrest, impoundment of vehicles or prosecution,” the statement said.

The police also sought to reassure residents that the enforcement operation would be conducted within the bounds of the law and with due respect for citizens’ rights.

To prevent abuse of the exercise, the Commissioner of Police issued a stern warning to officers assigned to the operation, directing them to carry out their duties professionally and lawfully.

The Command emphasized that the enforcement exercise must not be used as a platform for harassment, intimidation or extortion of members of the public.

It further warned that any officer found engaging in misconduct, unprofessional behaviour or extortion would face strict disciplinary measures.

The police reiterated their commitment to maintaining law and order across Rivers State, stressing that proactive policing strategies remain critical to protecting lives and property and enhancing public confidence in security agencies.