The Ogun State Police Command has commenced a statewide enforcement operation against vehicles operating with covered, concealed, defaced, unauthorised, fake, or missing registration number plates as part of efforts to strengthen security across the state.
The initiative, which follows a directive from the Inspector General of Police, is designed to curb criminal activities often perpetrated using vehicles whose identities cannot be easily traced by security agencies.
The Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, has directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Team Commanders to immediately enforce compliance with existing laws governing vehicle registration and identification.
Under the directive, vehicles found operating with obscured, altered, improperly issued, fake or concealed number plates will be impounded pending thorough investigation and necessary legal action.
The police authorities noted that the enforcement exercise is intended to eliminate the anonymity frequently exploited by criminal elements involved in kidnapping, armed robbery, cult-related violence and other offences.
According to the Command, the operation will also improve the ability of law enforcement agencies to identify vehicles, investigate crimes, track suspects and enhance public safety throughout Ogun State.
Motorists, commercial transport operators, corporate fleet managers and private vehicle owners have therefore been advised to ensure that all vehicles are fitted with valid and clearly visible registration number plates issued by the appropriate authorities.
The Command clarified that the enforcement is not aimed at harassing law-abiding citizens but is part of broader measures to strengthen the state’s security architecture and improve crime prevention efforts.
Police authorities further disclosed that only vehicles officially authorised to display flags in line with established government protocols are exempted from the directive.
Reaffirming its commitment to the protection of lives and property, the Ogun State Police Command urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by complying with the order and providing timely and credible information. Officers participating in the exercise have also been directed to conduct themselves professionally, courteously and strictly within the provisions of the law.
Residents can report emergencies through the Gateway Shield toll-free line, 0800 000 9111, and other designated emergency contact numbers released by the Command.