The Rivers State Police Command has reaffirmed the enforcement of restrictions on the movement of commercial tricycles across the state, while unveiling fresh security measures aimed at combating the rising cases of “one-chance” robberies, abductions and other violent crimes.

The Command also warned residents against boarding suspicious vehicles, particularly at night, urging passengers to be vigilant to avoid falling victim to criminal gangs operating under the guise of commercial transportation.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, the Command said the renewed enforcement aligns with the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu.

According to the statement, the existing restriction on the movement of tricycles, popularly known as “Keke,” from 10:00 p.m. remains fully in force throughout the state, warning operators and owners to comply strictly with the directive.

The police explained that the renewed enforcement became necessary as part of intensified efforts to curb the growing menace of “one-chance” robberies and related violent crimes across Rivers State.

“The enforcement takes immediate effect as part of intensified efforts to curb the growing menace of ‘one-chance’ robberies, abductions and other violent crimes in Rivers State,” the statement read.

The Command warned that individuals or groups involved in such criminal activities would be dealt with decisively in accordance with the law.

As part of its proactive crime prevention strategy, the Commissioner of Police directed the implementation of additional security measures expected to take effect from May 18, 2026.

Under the new directives, no commercial tricycle or “Keke-Bus” is allowed to operate with tinted glass or any form of covering capable of concealing the identity of passengers or occupants.

The police warned that any commercial tricycle found violating the directive would be impounded, while the operator would face arrest and prosecution.

The Command also outlawed the covering, alteration or concealment of vehicle registration numbers, stressing that offenders would be arrested without hesitation.

Similarly, the use of unregistered vehicles within the state has been prohibited, with vehicle owners and operators advised to regularize their documentation immediately or risk sanctions.

The police further emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between local security outfits, community stakeholders and Divisional Police Officers across various jurisdictions to improve intelligence gathering and coordinated responses to crime.

To help residents avoid falling victim to “one-chance” operators, the Command released a series of safety advisories.

Residents were cautioned against boarding tricycles, motorcycles or vehicles from isolated and poorly lit locations, especially during nighttime.

The police also advised commuters to avoid vehicles carrying suspicious or aggressive occupants, as well as vehicles with covered or heavily tinted interiors where occupants could not be clearly identified.

Passengers were encouraged to share their travel details and destinations with trusted friends or relatives whenever possible and to avoid openly displaying valuables such as cash, mobile phones and jewelry while in transit.

The Command further advised commuters to ensure that vehicles could be opened from both inside and outside before boarding and warned passengers against sitting in the middle of already-seated occupants.

In addition, residents were urged to discreetly take photographs or record the registration numbers of vehicles before boarding and send such information to trusted persons.

The police noted that passengers who feel unsafe should insist on getting off immediately.

The Command urged members of the public to promptly report suspicious movements or emergencies to the nearest police division or through its emergency response lines.

Reaffirming its commitment to public safety, the Rivers State Police Command assured residents that it remains resolute in safeguarding lives and property across the state.