The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has announced an immediate crackdown on the use of fake diplomatic and unauthorized vehicle plate numbers across Nigerian roads.
In a statement issued on Monday, Assistant Corps Marshal and Corps Public Education Officer Olusegun Ogungbemide disclosed that the directive, initiated by Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed, aims to enhance national security and prevent criminal activities linked to fraudulent vehicle identification.
The FRSC highlighted that these fake plates, bearing inscriptions such as Diplomatic Number Plates, NYCN, Peace Ambassador, NAUS, CYMS, UN-Unity 01, UN-AMB, and NANS, among others, are not produced by the FRSC’s official facilities or authorized by state motor licensing authorities.
The Corps noted that such plates are frequently exploited for illegal activities.
To tackle the issue, the Corps Marshal has mandated a nationwide tactical enforcement operation involving all FRSC formations.
Vehicles found using these unauthorised plates will be impounded, and their owners prosecuted.
Additionally, the FRSC will collaborate with other security agencies to trace and shut down the sources of these fake plates, ensuring that both producers and users are held accountable.
The FRSC has urged the public to report individuals using fake or unauthorized number plates to law enforcement agencies. It also advised current users of these illegal plates to cease their use immediately to avoid prosecution.
Reaffirming its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s security framework, the Corps warned that offenders will face strict penalties, with no exemptions.