(Vehicles With no Number Plates. Photo by Premuim Times)
The Benue State Police Command has begun a statewide operation targeting vehicles operating with hidden, tampered, defaced or unauthorised number plates, as well as those that are not properly registered.
The enforcement exercise, which commenced on Thursday, June 18, 2026, follows a directive from the Inspector-General of Police and is intended to strengthen national security and boost crime prevention strategies.
In a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, the Command said the operation is aimed at addressing growing security concerns linked to the use of such vehicles by criminal elements to evade identification and carry out unlawful activities.
The Commissioner of Police in Benue State, CP Cletus C.N. Nwadiogbu, has directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, Tactical Units and the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations to ensure the exercise is implemented strictly, professionally and in a coordinated manner across the state.
According to the Command, the use of vehicles without proper registration or with obscured and altered number plates presents a significant challenge to law enforcement agencies by making crime detection, investigation and public safety efforts more difficult.
The police therefore urged motorists to ensure their vehicles are properly registered and equipped with valid, clearly visible registration plates.
Vehicle owners were also advised to keep all relevant documentation current and available for inspection when required.
The Command stressed that the operation is not intended to intimidate or harass law-abiding citizens, but rather to serve as a proactive security measure designed to improve public safety and support effective policing.
CP Nwadiogbu cautioned officers taking part in the operation against misconduct, including extortion and harassment, warning that those found guilty would face disciplinary action.
The police urged residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies by reporting suspicious persons, vehicles and activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency contact lines.
The Command reaffirmed that security is a collective responsibility and appealed to the public to cooperate with law enforcement in maintaining peace and order across Benue State.