Law enforcement in Lagos launches crackdown on cars lacking valid registration tags

The Lagos State Police Command is set to launch a statewide operation targeting vehicles with covered, obscured, unauthorised, defaced or no registration number plates, as part of a broader effort to bolster security and crack down on crime across the state, according to plans announced by Esther Onyegbula.

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This exercise, slated to begin on Monday, June 15, 2026, is in response to a directive from Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, aimed at enhancing public safety and preventing criminals from hiding their identities.

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A statement issued on Sunday by Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, revealed that the operation will be overseen by Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Tijani Fatai, who has instructed all Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers to ensure strict adherence to the directive within their jurisdictions.

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Vehicles found to be in violation of the directive will be impounded and subjected to a thorough investigation, in accordance with existing laws and procedures, the command warned.

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The statement from the command outlined the scope of the operation, noting that it will commence on Monday, 15th June 2026, under the leadership of CP Tijani Fatai, who has directed all Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers to enforce the directive and ensure full compliance within their respective areas of responsibility.

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The police described the initiative as a proactive security measure designed to enhance law enforcement agencies' ability to identify vehicles, investigate crimes, track suspects, and strengthen the overall security architecture of Lagos State.

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The command emphasized that the operation is not intended to harass or inconvenience law-abiding motorists, but rather to close loopholes often exploited by criminals, it explained.

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Motorists, transport operators, fleet owners, and other road users were advised to ensure their vehicles display valid and clearly visible registration number plates at all times, and to keep all relevant vehicle documents up to date and readily available for inspection.

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The police reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding lives and property, and called on residents to support the initiative by complying with the directive and providing useful information to security agencies, stressing that the success of the initiative depends on public cooperation and support.

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The command urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons, vehicles, movements, or activities through its emergency lines, emphasizing that security is a shared responsibility.

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The police expressed gratitude to Lagos residents for their continued cooperation and support as efforts intensify to improve security across the state.