Police launch crackdown on unregistered vehicles in Katsina

The Katsina State Police Command has launched a statewide operation to seize vehicles that lack valid registration or display concealed, fake, or improperly affixed number plates.

The move follows a directive from Inspector‑General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, to strengthen internal security and improve crime detection nationwide.

In a statement issued Thursday in Katsina, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) DSP Abubakar Sadiq‑Aliyu said the operation will target vehicles with unregistered, forged, duplicated or improperly affixed plates. He added that it will also cover plates that are covered, concealed, defaced, mutilated, dented or altered to obstruct visibility.

According to Sadiq‑Aliyu, the command has noted an increasing use of hidden, missing or unauthorized plates by criminals to evade identification and frustrate law‑enforcement efforts. He said such practices pose security threats, hindering proactive policing and making crime detection more difficult.

He reported that Commissioner of Police Ali Fage has directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Commanders to begin strict enforcement immediately across the state.

The police spokesman warned that any vehicle found violating the law will be impounded, investigated, and the offenders prosecuted under existing laws. He urged motorists to regularise their registration and ensure their plates are properly affixed, clearly visible and compliant with the law.

Sadiq‑Aliyu also said the commissioner instructed officers involved in the operation to maintain the highest level of professionalism and civility. He warned that acts of extortion, intimidation or harassment by police would not be tolerated and would attract severe disciplinary action.

The spokesman urged the public to report any misconduct by officers through the command’s emergency lines or the Police Public Relations Office. He also appealed to residents to report suspicious vehicles operating under questionable circumstances to the nearest police station, assuring them of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property through proactive policing.

The command expressed confidence that the enforcement will enhance public safety, improve vehicle identification and strengthen efforts to combat crime.