Zamfara police warn motorists against covering plate numbers
The Zamfara State Police Command has warned motorists in the state against covering or concealing their vehicle plate numbers, describing the act as illegal and a threat to public safety.
This was contained in a statement by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Yazid Abubakar, and made available to journalists in Gusau.
The Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Balarabe Maikaba, said it is unlawful to drive with covered or tampered plate numbers, particularly within the state capital.
“This warning came as a result of increasing reports and observations of motorists driving with covered or concealed plate numbers, which is a clear violation of traffic regulations and poses a serious threat to public safety and security. The command views this act as an intentional effort to evade law enforcement scrutiny and potentially aid criminal activity,” Maikaba said.
He added that the police would no longer tolerate such violations and have directed officers to begin strict enforcement. “Officers have been directed to commence strict enforcement, and any vehicle found with an obscured, covered, or tampered plate number will be impounded. Offenders will face the full weight of the law,” he stated.
The commissioner urged residents and motorists to adhere to traffic laws and cooperate with the police to promote safety and order in Zamfara.
He assured the public of the command’s readiness to uphold peace and security, calling on citizens to report any suspicious movements to the nearest police station.
Meanwhile, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) had earlier launched a national operation to clamp down on fake and illegal plate numbers. In February, the FRSC impounded about 60 vehicles in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for related offences.
Assistant Corps Marshal Hyginus Omeje, who oversees operations, said the exercise was aimed at addressing the rising use of fake number plates across the country.
He noted that some motorists had been using unauthorised plates, including those cloned from diplomatic missions.
“The use of fake number plates has become a major security concern in the country. Some citizens have taken it upon themselves to use unauthorised number plates not recognised by law. FRSC would leave no stone unturned in tracing the source of the fake number plates and bringing those responsible to book,” Omeje said, adding that the crackdown would continue in all major cities nationwide.