Oyo Police have begun a statewide operation against vehicles with fake number plates and improper identification.
The command said the move is to curb crime after the Oriire school abduction.It stated that the exercise commenced on Thursday and would be sustained across the state.
In a statement on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the command said that the exercise targets unmarked vehicles, fake or obscure number plates, and vehicles operating with illegally covered registration numbers.
The enforcement drive forms part of ongoing measures to dismantle criminal networks and improve the state’s overall security architecture.
“The Oyo State Police Command, in furtherance of its unwavering commitment to ensuring a safer and more secure environment and in line with ongoing efforts to rid the state of violent crime and other forms of criminality, has commenced a statewide enforcement operation targeting unmarked vehicular objects, fake and obscured number plates, as well as unauthorized covering of vehicle plates,” the statement said.
The command warned that violators of vehicle identification regulations would face immediate arrest, while affected vehicles and motorcycles would be impounded in accordance with existing laws and operational guidelines.
The police also announced plans to intensify stop-and-search operations, intelligence-driven patrols, and coordinated raids on identified criminal hideouts and blackspots.
According to the command, there will be increased police visibility and strategic deployment of personnel across major roads, communities, and other critical locations in both urban and rural areas of the state.
The police explained that the measures are designed to deter criminal activities, improve emergency response capabilities, and strengthen public confidence in law enforcement operations.
“The Command will sustain intermittent stop-and-search operations, intelligence-led patrols, and coordinated raids of identified criminal blackspots across the state. There will also be increased police visibility and strategic deployment of personnel within key locations across urban and rural areas,” the statement added.
The Command urged to remain law-abiding and cooperate with security personnel carrying out the operation.
It assured members of the public that all enforcement activities would be conducted professionally, lawfully, and with respect for fundamental human rights.
“The Command appreciates the continued support and understanding of residents and assures that all operations will be conducted professionally, lawfully, and with due respect for human rights,” it stated.