In a statewide crackdown on vehicle anonymity dubbed “Operation Clean Plates,” the Kano State Police Command on Monday, July 6, impounded 81 vehicles across the state. The massive enforcement targeted motorists plying the roads with covered, defaced, or missing number plates. Police Commissioner Ibrahim Adamu Bakori vowed that all offenders will face prosecution, directly linking the illegal practice to criminal activity.
Kano State Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Bakori, confirmed this during a press conference at the Motor Traffic Division office on BUK Road, Kano.
CP Bakori stated that the operation targets vehicles with covered, defaced, or missing number plates—a practice he slammed as a growing security threat across the state.
“This is not a minor traffic offence. It is a deliberate attempt to create anonymity. Criminals use such vehicles to commit crimes and escape detection,” he said.
He noted that the command had executed extensive public sensitization campaigns across radio, television, and social media platforms before launching the enforcement.
“We gave ample notice so that no one could claim ignorance. Vehicle owners were reminded of their responsibility to ensure proper registration and clear display of number plates,” he emphasized.
The police boss emphasized that the operation remains active across all 44 local government areas of Kano State.”
We have intercepted 81 motor vehicles in violation. They have been impounded, and the drivers will face prosecution, Bakori said.
He further revealed that tactical operatives intercepted three additional vehicles under highly suspicious circumstances, after the occupants failed to provide satisfactory explanations for their movement.
“The suspects and the vehicles are currently being processed for further investigation. We will ensure that the law takes its full course,” he said.
He assured residents that the enforcement is strictly a public safety initiative rather than a tool for citizen harassment.
“This exercise is not about harassment. It is about safety. It is about ensuring that every vehicle on our road can be identified and traced,” he said.
CP Bakori urged vehicle owners to comply with traffic laws by immediately fixing standard plates and stripping away any obstructions. Furthermore, the commissioner implored the public to cooperate with field officers while remaining vigilant against extortion.
“We will not condone indiscipline. Members of the public should report any act of unprofessional conduct by our personnel,” he added.
Reaffirming the command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing under the strategic leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Bakori handed down a final warning to defiant motorists.
“The operation will continue until full compliance is achieved,” he said
