The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has uncovered a criminal network involved in the production and circulation of fake diplomatic and official government number plates.
The command also recovered vandalised public infrastructure from suspected vandals across the territory.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, the Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Sanusi, said investigations into the fake number plate syndicate began shortly after he assumed office following reports of the proliferation of diplomatic and government registration plates in the hands of unauthorised persons.
He said the investigation exposed both the users of the fake plates and the production and supply chain, adding that suspects are in custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
Sanusi disclosed that the manufacturers of the fake number plates operate outside the FCT but have been identified by investigators.
According to him, some buyers paid between ₦500,000 and ₦1.7 million to procure the fake diplomatic and official number plates, which were allegedly used to evade security checkpoints and gain unauthorised access to government institutions and other restricted locations.
The police commissioner also announced the recovery of stolen public infrastructure, including drainage covers, solar-powered street lights, armoured electricity cables and internet communication cables removed from various parts of the FCT.
Five suspects were arrested in connection with the recoveries during intelligence-led operations carried out in Maitama, Garki, Durumi, Jabi, Apo Legislative Quarters, Lugbe and Nyanya.
Sanusi described the vandalism of public infrastructure as economic sabotage with serious consequences for residents, warning scrap dealers and other receivers of stolen items that the police have widened investigations to dismantle the entire criminal network.
He added that the recovered infrastructure would be handed over to the Federal Capital Territory Administration for reinstallation.
He urged residents to report suspicious vehicles bearing diplomatic registration numbers as part of efforts to strengthen security in the nation’s capital.
