Police bust network producing fake diplomatic, govt number plates bearing ‘Presidency’, ‘Senator’, others in Abuja

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has uncovered a criminal network involved in the production and use of fake diplomatic and official government number plates in Abuja. 
FCT Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Sanusi, disclosed the development on Friday, July 31, during a press briefing at the command headquarters in Abuja. 
Sanusi said the syndicate specialises in producing fake diplomatic and official government number plates allegedly used by criminals to evade security checks and gain access to restricted locations. 
According to Sanusi, investigations into the illegal operation began shortly after he assumed office as Commissioner of Police following reports that diplomatic and government number plates were increasingly being used by unauthorised persons. 
The investigation, he said, exposed not only individuals using the fake plates but also the network responsible for producing and distributing them. 
He confirmed that suspects linked to the fake number plates are currently in police custody and will be charged in court after investigations are completed. 
Sanusi revealed that although the manufacturers of the fake plates operate outside the Federal Capital Territory, investigators have already identified them and are working to apprehend those behind the operation. 
He further disclosed that investigations showed buyers paid between ₦500,000 and ₦1.7 million to obtain the counterfeit diplomatic and official number plates. 
According to him, the large amounts spent on the fake plates suggest they were intended for serious criminal activities, adding that those involved would face severe legal consequences. 
The commissioner appealed to residents and members of the media to assist security agencies by reporting vehicles carrying suspicious diplomatic registration numbers. He explained that genuine diplomatic number plates follow recognised registration formats that can be verified by law enforcement agencies. 
Sanusi said criminals often use fake diplomatic plates to avoid security checks at checkpoints and gain unrestricted access to government offices and other sensitive locations.