Police launch statewide crackdown on unregistered and obscured vehicle number plates in Benue.

The Benue State Police Command has launched a statewide operation to seize vehicles that use hidden, tampered, defaced, or unauthorized number plates, as well as those that are not properly registered. The exercise began on Thursday, 18 June 2026, following a directive from the Inspector‑General of Police and is intended to strengthen national security and crime‑prevention efforts.

According to a statement from the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, the operation targets vehicles with covered, obscured, or altered plates and unregistered cars, which criminals use to evade identification and commit unlawful acts.

Commissioner of Police in Benue State, CP Cletus C.N. Nwadiogbu, has instructed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, Tactical Commanders, and the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations to implement the exercise in a strict, coordinated, and professional manner across the state.

The Command warned that vehicles lacking proper registration or with concealed plates pose a serious obstacle to law‑enforcement agencies, hindering crime detection, investigation, and public safety.

Motorists are urged to ensure their vehicles are properly registered, fitted with valid and clearly visible number plates, and to keep all related documents up to date and available for inspection when required.

The initiative is not intended to harass law‑abiding citizens but is a proactive security measure designed to improve public safety and support effective policing.

CP Nwadiogbu cautioned officers involved in the operation against extortion, harassment, or any form of misconduct, stating that violators will face disciplinary action.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and to report suspicious persons, vehicles, or activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency lines.

The Command reiterated that security is a collective responsibility and urged the public to cooperate with law‑enforcement agencies to maintain peace and order throughout Benue State.