The Abia State Police Command has commenced a statewide enforcement exercise against unregistered vehicles and vehicles bearing tampered, obscured, defaced, altered, or improperly covered number plates.

The operation is being carried out in line with a directive from the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and is aimed at improving security and reducing criminal activities often facilitated through vehicles that are difficult to identify or trace.

In a statement issued on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, Danladi Isa, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chioma Chinaka, said the exercise follows the Inspector-General’s nationwide directive for the impoundment of unregistered vehicles and the prosecution of offenders.

According to the statement, the continued use of unregistered vehicles and vehicles with concealed or altered registration numbers poses serious security concerns. The Commissioner noted that such practices hinder law enforcement efforts, complicate crime investigations, and provide opportunities for criminal elements to evade detection and arrest.

CP Isa directed all officers and personnel participating in the operation to ensure that enforcement is carried out in a coordinated, professional, and lawful manner. He emphasised the need to respect the fundamental rights of citizens while discharging their duties.

He also cautioned officers against extortion, harassment, or any form of misconduct during the exercise, warning that any personnel found violating the rules would face strict disciplinary measures.

The Commissioner urged motorists whose vehicles are not properly registered or whose number plates have been altered, obscured, or tampered with to comply immediately with the relevant regulations.

He further encouraged members of the public to report any cases of police misconduct through the Command’s Complaint Response Unit and called on residents to support ongoing security efforts by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious individuals or activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency lines.

The statement added that the enforcement operation is part of broader measures by the Police to enhance public safety, improve crime prevention, and strengthen security across Abia State.