Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command have intercepted a network producing illegal official vehicle plates, recovering multiple fake diplomatic and government number plates across Abuja.
FCT Police Commissioner Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi disclosed this to journalists on Friday at the command headquarters, revealing that the operation targeted criminal elements using these authorized designations to evade arrest.
Sanusi explained that upon assuming office, he noticed a rising trend in the misuse of high-profile vehicle tags.
A targeted investigation subsequently exposed a syndicate manufacturing the illegal plates, which suspects leveraged to conceal their identities while operating within the federal capital.
“Displayed before you are some of the diplomatic and official government number plates recovered from different parts of the FCT,” Sanusi said.
He added that suspects arrested in connection with the illegal plates remain in custody of the police, stating that they will be prosecuted upon the conclusion of investigations.
Some vehicles bearing the unauthorized plates were also presented to reporters during the media briefing.
Sanusi assured residents that the command remains committed to tackling crime and ensuring the safety of lives and property in the Federal Capital Territory.
“We will not relent in our efforts until crime and criminality are reduced to the barest minimum in the FCT.”
Some of the number plates were bearing Presidency, senator, House Representatives amongst others titles.