The Kano State Police Command has impounded 81 vehicles for operating with covered number plates, defaced registration numbers or no registration, warning that offenders will be prosecuted as part of efforts to curb crime and improve public safety.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Ibrahim Bakori, disclosed this while addressing journalists on Monday, describing the growing trend as a serious security concern.
According to him, vehicles without proper identification provide criminals with anonymity, making it easier to carry out illegal activities and evade law enforcement.
“This is not a minor traffic offence. It is a deliberate attempt to create anonymity. Criminals use such vehicles to commit crimes and escape detection. We cannot and will not allow Kano State to be used as a safe haven for such activities,” Bakori said.
He explained that the enforcement exercise followed an extensive public awareness campaign carried out through radio, television, social media and live phone-in programmes to educate residents on the importance of proper vehicle registration and visible number plates.
Bakori said the command gave motorists adequate notice before launching the operation, adding that ignorance would not be accepted as an excuse for non-compliance.
During the operation, the police also intercepted three vehicles under suspicious circumstances.
According to the commissioner, the occupants failed to provide satisfactory explanations regarding the ownership and purpose of the vehicles during preliminary questioning.
He said the suspects and the vehicles are currently undergoing further investigation, assuring that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
Bakori stressed that the exercise was not intended to harass motorists but to enhance security by ensuring every vehicle on the road can be properly identified and traced when necessary.
He urged vehicle owners across the state to comply with registration requirements and ensure standard number plates are properly fixed and clearly displayed to avoid sanctions.
