Authorities in Kano seize 81 cars for having obscured or altered license plates

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The Kano State Police Command has impounded 81 vehicles found plying roads with covered number plates, defaced registration numbers or no registration at all, warning that the owners and drivers will face prosecution.

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The state Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Bakori, disclosed this while briefing journalists on Monday, describing the development as a security threat.

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“Kano State Police Command has observed an alarming increase in the number of vehicles plying our roads with covered number plates, defaced registration numbers, or no registration at all.

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“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.

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He said the command embarked on extensive public sensitisation before commencing the enforcement exercise.

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“Before the commencement of the enforcement, the command had embarked on massive public sensitization through the use of radio, television, social media platforms, and live phone-in programmes to educate the public,” he said.

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“We reminded vehicle owners of their responsibility to ensure proper registration and clear display of number plates. We gave ample notice so that no one will claim ignorance,” the police commissioner added.

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He also disclosed that three vehicles were intercepted under suspicious circumstances during the operation.

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“Three motor vehicles with their occupants were intercepted under suspicious circumstances. During preliminary interrogation, the occupants failed to provide satisfactory accounts regarding the ownership and purpose of the vehicles,” Bakori said.

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“The suspects and the vehicles are currently being processed for further investigation. We will ensure that the law takes its full course,” he added.

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The police commissioner said the operation was aimed at enhancing public safety and ensuring that all vehicles on the roads could be identified.

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“The exercise is not about harassment but rather about their safety, and ensuring that every vehicle on our road can be identified and traced,” Bakori said.

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He urged motorists to comply with the law by properly registering their vehicles and displaying standard number plates.

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“I therefore call on all vehicle owners to ensure their vehicles are properly registered and that standard number plates are fixed and clearly visible,” Bakori said.

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