Kwara: Police move against vehicles with covered, obscured number plates

Kwara State Police Command has announced that it will on Monday begin a statewide enforcement exercise against vehicles with covered, obscured,
unauthorized, defaced, altered or no registration number plates.
‎
‎A statement by the spokesperson of the command, SP Adetoun Ejire Adeyemi, in Ilorin on Sunday, said the move is in strict compliance with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu.
‎
‎”Consequently, the state Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi, has directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and the State Traffic Officer to immediately commence full-scale enforcement across their respective Areas of Responsibility and ensure total compliance with this directive,” the statement said.
‎
‎The police commissioner said any vehicle found in violation of the directive will be impounded and subjected to thorough investigation in accordance with extant laws and established procedures.

The command stated that “there will be no preferential treatment, exemption, or special consideration for any individual or organisation found contravening this directive, irrespective of status, position, or influence”.

“The law will be applied fairly, firmly, and without compromise,” the statement added.
‎
‎The command advised motorists and vehicle owners to remove any covering or obstruction on their number plates and ensure that only duly issued, valid, and clearly visible registration plates are displayed on their vehicles at all times.

Owners are equally urged to keep all vehicle documents current and readily available for inspection whenever required by law enforcement officers.
‎
‎The command explained that the exercise is not intended to inconvenience law-abiding citizens, but a deliberate and proactive security measure aimed at improving the identification of vehicles, enhancing criminal investigations, tracking fleeing suspects, and strengthening the overall security architecture of the state.

“Criminals have increasingly exploited concealed or unregistered vehicles to perpetrate unlawful acts, and the command is determined to close every avenue that aids such activities,” the statement vowed.
‎
‎The command warned that any person who deliberately covers, tampers with, alters, or operates a vehicle without proper registration number plates does so at their own risk and should be prepared to face the full weight of the law.

“Compliance is mandatory, and enforcement officers have been directed to carry out their duties professionally, impartially, and without fear or favour.
‎
‎”The Command remains resolute in its commitment to protecting lives and property and creating a safer environment for all residents and visitors to the state.

“It appreciates the continued cooperation and support of the good people of Kwara and calls on everyone to embrace this initiative in the collective interest of public safety and security,” the statement said.

The command urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons, vehicles, movements, or activities through the command’s emergency lines: 0703 206 9501 and 0812 527 5046.

‎