The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has intensified efforts to curb rising criminal activities by ordering the impoundment of vehicles without number plates and enforcing regulations on tinted glass and covered plates.
The directive, issued on Tuesday by the FCT Commissioner of Police, Tunji Disu, also includes deploying more personnel and equipment for patrols and stop-and-search operations across the nation’s capital.
Disu’s decision follows a surge in “one-chance” incidents in the FCT, where unsuspecting commuters are robbed by criminals posing as taxi operators.
In a statement released by the Command’s spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, residents were assured that the new measures aim to enhance security. However, she acknowledged that the operations might cause some inconvenience.
“The FCT Police Command is deploying additional personnel and equipment for patrols, stop-and-search operations, and surveillance throughout the Federal Capital Territory,” Adeh stated. “This initiative aims to combat rising incidents of ‘one chance’ crimes and car theft.”
Highlighting specific enforcement measures, she added: “We will be impounding vehicles without registration numbers, with only one plate, or using defaced plates. Regulations regarding covered number plates and tinted glasses will also be strictly enforced.”
Adeh also noted progress since the initiative began, including the recovery of stolen vehicles and the arrest of suspects involved in “one-chance” crimes.
“Since launching these measures, we have successfully recovered stolen vehicles and apprehended ‘one-chance’ robbers. We appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation during these operations,” she said.
Residents were urged to comply with all vehicle regulations and report suspicious activities to the police. “Your safety is our priority,” Adeh emphasized.
The FCT Police Command reiterated its commitment to creating a secure environment for residents, assuring the public that every effort would be made to deter criminal activities and protect lives and property.