The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has launched an immediate crackdown on vehicles bearing fake diplomatic and unauthorized number plates across Nigeria.
This decisive move is part of a broader effort to boost national security and curb the use of fraudulent plates in criminal activities.
Fraudulent Plates Linked to Criminal Acts
In a statement issued on Monday, FRSC’s Assistant Corps Marshal and Public Education Officer, Olusegun Ogungbemide, revealed the directive from the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed.
He explained that the operation targets fake plates with inscriptions such as Diplomatic Number Plates, NYCN, Peace Ambassador, NAUS, CYMS, UN-Unity 01, UN-AMB, and NANS.
“These plates are not produced by the FRSC’s official plants or state motor licensing authorities,” Ogungbemide said.
According to the FRSC, these fraudulent plates are often used to facilitate illegal activities and evade law enforcement.
Nationwide Tactical Operation Underway
To combat the menace, the Corps Marshal has ordered a nationwide tactical enforcement operation.
Ogungbemide confirmed that vehicles with unauthorized plates would be impounded immediately.
“The owners of these vehicles will face prosecution,” he warned.
The FRSC also plans to collaborate with other security agencies to track down and dismantle the sources of these fake plates.
Producers and distributors of the plates will also be held accountable for their roles in the criminal network.
Public Urged to Take Action
The FRSC has urged the public to report individuals using such plates to law enforcement agencies.
Ogungbemide advised current users of fake number plates to remove them immediately to avoid legal repercussions.
“Any vehicle found with these unauthorized plates will face the full weight of the law,” he declared.
A Threat to Nigeria’s Security
The Corps highlighted the security risks posed by these fake plates, emphasizing that criminals exploit them to bypass security checks and carry out nefarious activities.
“This crackdown is essential for safeguarding Nigeria’s security architecture,” Ogungbemide said.
He stressed that the FRSC remains committed to ensuring that offenders are brought to justice without exception.
Collaborating for a Safer Nigeria
The operation will involve close cooperation between the FRSC and other security agencies, reflecting a unified approach to tackling the problem.
By identifying and shutting down the sources of fake plates, the FRSC aims to disrupt criminal networks that depend on these fraudulent identification tools.
Warning to Vehicle Owners
Vehicle owners using illegal plates are being warned to desist immediately.
The Corps has made it clear that ignorance of the law will not be an excuse.
“This enforcement is not just about impounding vehicles; it is about protecting lives and ensuring that criminals are denied the tools to operate,” Ogungbemide said.
Background on FRSC’s Mandate
The FRSC has been at the forefront of ensuring road safety and enforcing vehicle regulations in Nigeria.
In recent months, the Corps has also debunked rumors of fake recruitment exercises, warning the public against falling victim to scammers.
This latest directive aligns with the FRSC’s broader mission to maintain order and promote safety on Nigerian roads.
Public Support Key to Success
Experts have emphasized the importance of public cooperation in the fight against fake number plates.
