Musa Na Allah, Sokoto
The Sokoto State Police Command has impounded 32 vehicles operating without valid number plates or with obscured registration details, as security agencies intensify a nationwide enforcement campaign to strengthen public safety and curb criminal activities linked to unregistered vehicles.
The operation, conducted across major parts of the Sokoto metropolis on Monday, was carried out in compliance with directives from the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, ordering police commands nationwide to enforce regulations on vehicle registration and identification.
In a significant step to ensure swift prosecution of offenders, the command also activated a mobile court to handle cases arising from the enforcement exercise, underscoring the determination of law enforcement authorities to promote compliance with road traffic regulations.
The mobile court, presided over by Isah Idris Marafa, immediately commenced proceedings on several cases and imposed penalties in accordance with relevant traffic and vehicle registration laws.
Speaking after the court session, Sokoto State Commissioner of Police, Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, said the operation forms part of broader national efforts to enhance security, improve intelligence gathering and deny criminal elements the opportunity to exploit weaknesses in vehicle identification systems.
Shaffa noted that vehicles operating without proper registration, or with concealed, altered or defaced number plates, present serious security risks because they are frequently used by criminals seeking to evade detection by law enforcement agencies.
He stressed that effective vehicle identification remains a critical component of modern policing and is essential in tracking suspects, investigating crimes and supporting ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping, banditry, armed robbery and other organised criminal activities across the country.
According to the police commissioner, the enforcement drive is not intended to harass law-abiding citizens but to ensure strict adherence to regulations designed to protect lives, property and public order.
He urged vehicle owners and motorists to obtain valid registration documents, display approved number plates and comply fully with all traffic regulations to avoid sanctions.
Shaffa also appealed to residents to support security agencies by providing credible information and cooperating with lawful directives aimed at improving safety within their communities.
He disclosed that the exercise would be extended across all 23 local government areas of Sokoto State, warning that enforcement operations would continue until full compliance is achieved.
The commissioner maintained that the initiative aligns with ongoing national security strategies aimed at strengthening law enforcement capabilities and closing loopholes that could be exploited by criminal networks.
He further revealed that the mobile court would continue to sit regularly to ensure speedy prosecution of offenders, enhance accountability and serve as a deterrent against future violations.
The Sokoto State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the law without fear or favour and called on Nigerians to support measures aimed at promoting security, responsible road use and greater accountability on the nation’s highways.
