The Kano State Police Command has impounded 81 vehicles over covered, altered or missing number plates during a crackdown aimed at preventing criminal activities.
The enforcement drive is designed to ensure that all vehicles on the road can be properly identified and traced to strengthen security.
Kano Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Bakori, disclosed this while briefing journalists on Monday.
Bakori reaffirmed the command’s commitment to sustaining the enforcement exercise until full compliance is achieved throughout Kano State.
According to the Commissioner, the command had already carried out extensive public awareness campaigns before commencing enforcement.
Bakori said radio, television, social media platforms and interactive programmes were used to educate motorists on the importance of proper vehicle registration and the display of standard number plates.
He explained that the operation specifically targets vehicles operating with concealed number plates, altered registration details or no registration at all.
“Such violations are not mere traffic offences. Criminals often exploit unregistered or improperly identified vehicles to commit crimes and evade detection by security agencies,” Bakori said.
He added, “So far, we have intercepted 81 motor vehicles in violation. They have been impounded, and their drivers will face prosecution.”
Furthermore, the police commissioner disclosed that three occupants of separate vehicles were intercepted under suspicious circumstances during the operation.
According to him, preliminary investigations revealed that the individuals could not provide satisfactory explanations regarding the ownership and purpose of the vehicles.
He noted that both the suspects and the vehicles remain under investigation.
Bakori emphasised that the exercise is not intended to harass law-abiding motorists but to improve public safety and strengthen the state’s security framework.
He urged vehicle owners to ensure proper registration of their vehicles, install approved number plates and remove any coverings or obstructions that conceal registration details.
The commissioner also appealed to residents to cooperate with security personnel and refrain from actions capable of undermining public order.
In addition, he encouraged members of the public to report any unprofessional conduct by police officers through the Command Control Response Unit’s dedicated complaint channels.
The police command said the operation, codenamed Operation Clean Plates, is being implemented across the state’s 44 local government areas as part of efforts to enhance intelligence-led policing and curb criminal activities.