Police Bust Fake Diplomatic Number Plate Syndicate in Abuja, Suspects Face Prosecution
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has uncovered a criminal network involved in the production and use of fake diplomatic and official government number plates, a development authorities say was being exploited by criminals to evade security checks and gain access to restricted locations.
Commissioner of Police Ahmed Sanusidisclosed the breakthrough during a press briefing in Abuja, describing the operation as part of an ongoing effort to dismantle organised criminal networks in the nation’s capital.
Sanusi said investigations began shortly after he assumed office following reports of the increasing misuse of diplomatic and government licence plates by unauthorised persons. According to him, detectives traced not only those using the counterfeit plates but also the network responsible for producing and distributing them. He revealed that several suspects have been taken into custody and will be charged in court after investigations are concluded, while the manufacturers—believed to be operating outside the FCT—have already been identified and are being tracked.
The police commissioner disclosed that investigations showed some buyers paid between ₦500,000 and ₦1.7 million to obtain the fake number plates. He explained that the counterfeit plates were allegedly used as cover for criminal activities and to avoid detection by security agencies. To avoid compromising ongoing operations, the command declined to publicly parade the suspects while efforts continue to arrest other members of the syndicate.
Beyond the fake number plate operation, the command also recovered several items of public infrastructure believed to have been stolen from different parts of the FCT. The recovered materials include drainage covers, solar-powered street lights, armoured electricity cables and internet communication cables. Sanusi warned dealers and buyers of stolen public property that the police have launched extensive investigations to identify everyone involved in the supply and disposal chain. He added that the recovered infrastructure would be returned to the Federal Capital Territory Administration for reinstallation.
The latest operation highlights the FCT Police Command’s intensified campaign against organised crime, particularly offences involving impersonation of government institutions and vandalism of public assets. Authorities urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, assuring the public that intelligence-led operations would continue to ensure those behind such criminal enterprises are brought to justice.
