- Safiu Kehinde
The Lagos State Police Command has commenced crackdown on vehicles with unauthorised number plates in the state.
This is coming days after the directive issued by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, in said bid to enhance public safety, strengthen security, and deny criminal elements the opportunity to conceal their identities and activities.
In compliance with the directive, the Lagos Police Command declared commencement of a statewide enforcement exercise against vehicles with unauthorised number plates as well as those with covered, obscured, defaced or no registration number plates.
As announced in a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, Abimbola Adebisi, the exercise will commence today and will be led by the state’s Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai.
The commissioner, according to Abimbola, has directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), across the State to commence enforcement of the directive and ensure full compliance within their respective Areas of Responsibility.
Tijani further directed that any vehicle found violating the directive be impounded and subjected to thorough investigation in accordance with extant laws and established procedures.
Meanwhile, the Command assured members of the public that the enforcement exercise is not intended to inconvenience law-abiding motorists.
It however urged the motorists to ensure that their vehicles carry valid number plates.
“It is a proactive security measure designed to enhance the capacity of Police operatives to identify vehicles, investigate crimes, track criminal suspects, and strengthen the overall security architecture of the State.
“Accordingly, motorists, transport operators, fleet owners, and members of the public are advised to ensure that their vehicles carry valid, duly issued, and clearly visible registration number plates at all times.
“Vehicle owners are also encouraged to ensure that all relevant vehicle documents are up-to-date and readily available for inspection when required.” Abimbola wrote.
The Police spokesperson reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property and creating a safer environment for all residents and visitors in the state while requesting the public’s cooperation with the personnel.
“The success of this initiative, like all policing efforts, depends largely on the cooperation and support of members of the public.
“The Command appreciates the understanding, cooperation, and continued support of Lagosians as it continues to implement measures aimed at ensuring the safety and security of all.
“Security is a shared responsibility. The Command therefore urges residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons, vehicles, movements, or activities through the Command’s emergency lines: 07061019374, 08065154338, 08063299264, 08039344870, and 09168630929.” Abimbola added.