The Nigeria Police Force is currently investigating a massive number of vehicles suspected of having fraudulent registration information. A total of 5,877 vehicles are under scrutiny due to discrepancies found in their records within the police’s digital Central Motor Registry (e-CMR) system.
This revelation comes from the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, who addressed a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, shedding light on the ongoing efforts to combat vehicle-related crimes. According to Adejobi, the investigation is part of the police’s broader strategy to use technology in enhancing their crime-fighting capabilities.
The e-CMR, an electronic platform that serves as a central database for all licensed vehicles in the country, is a critical tool in the police’s effort to track and monitor vehicle-related activities. The police force, which has increasingly leaned on digital systems, has seen promising results in their crime-fighting initiatives, particularly in the area of vehicle theft.
“We have seen significant success with the e-CMR system, particularly in recovering stolen vehicles,” Adejobi said. “In 2024 alone, the police recovered 1,519 stolen vehicles, and in the first month of 2025, we’ve already secured the return of 52 more.”
The e-CMR system not only helps in recovering stolen vehicles but also aids in identifying vehicles that may have been involved in illegal activities or have suspicious origins. The system has already recorded over 400,000 vehicles from legitimate owners, each contributing their vehicle’s details into the national registry.
However, the investigation of 5,877 vehicles flagged for conflicting information highlights a troubling trend. ACP Adejobi explained that these discrepancies could indicate that the vehicles may have been stolen or used for illicit purposes, and it is up to the police to thoroughly vet their history.
“We are committed to ensuring that our roads are free from vehicles with false documentation. These investigations will help clear up any confusion and eliminate vehicles that might be connected to crimes,” Adejobi added.
The police are not only relying on traditional policing methods but are integrating technology into their strategies. According to Adejobi, in addition to the e-CMR system, the force has launched several tools to improve the efficiency of their operations. Among these tools are the Police Rescue Me App, which assists in emergency responses, and the Police VGS Emergency App designed to provide real-time support for vehicle-related incidents.
Another noteworthy development is the police’s upcoming module that will allow citizens to verify the status of their vehicles via a USSD code. This initiative, currently being developed, aims to make it easier for Nigerians to check whether their vehicle has been reported stolen or flagged for any reason, simply by dialing a number from their phones. Adejobi mentioned that the service would be available once the connectivity with mobile telecom operators is finalized.
“The idea is to integrate modern ICT systems into policing,” Adejobi explained. “Through these initiatives, we can make policing more accessible and more transparent for Nigerians, helping them stay informed about their vehicle’s legal status.”
The police force’s efforts to modernize their approach to law enforcement have been met with a positive response from the public. The e-CMR system has already led to the successful recovery of stolen vehicles, some of which were tracked and found in various regions of the country. In October 2024, for example, three vehicles that had been reported stolen through the platform were recovered and returned to their rightful owners.
While the e-CMR system has proven effective, it also faces challenges. One significant concern is the slow pace at which Nigerians have adopted the digital system. Although the platform now houses over 400,000 vehicle registrations, this figure is just a fraction of the vehicles on Nigerian roads. The police hope to increase public participation by encouraging vehicle owners to register their vehicles on the platform.
As part of its campaign to promote the system, the police have also focused on awareness efforts. Adejobi urged Nigerians to register their vehicles and provide accurate information, stressing that this would help improve security across the country.
“Registering your vehicle in the e-CMR system is a crucial step in ensuring its security,” Adejobi said. “If your car is stolen, the e-CMR system can be the key to recovering it quickly. We also urge Nigerians to report any stolen vehicles via the platform. It is a simple process that can make a big difference.”
Since its introduction, the e-CMR has gathered a wealth of data, including over 1,000 stolen vehicle reports. These vehicles are being closely monitored as investigations continue. As a result, the police are hopeful that the system will continue to prove effective in solving vehicle-related crimes across the country.
With increasing public awareness and the integration of more technological tools, the Nigeria Police Force is poised to make significant strides in tackling vehicle fraud and theft. The ongoing investigations into the 5,877 vehicles are just one example of how digital tools can aid law enforcement in their fight against crime.
As the police continue their work, Adejobi assured the public that all investigations would be carried out with the utmost professionalism and transparency.
“We are determined to make our roads safer for everyone,” he concluded. “The Nigeria Police Force is committed to using all available tools and technologies to fight crime and ensure that the law is upheld in every corner of the country.”
