The Federal Road Safety Corps has intensified a nationwide crackdown on the illegal use of fake diplomatic number plates, warning that violators will be arrested and prosecuted.
The agency said the operation was aimed at identifying, impounding, and prosecuting individuals unlawfully using unauthorized diplomatic plates across the country.
As part of the enforcement exercise, operatives of the FRSC Rivers State Sector Command apprehended several motorists found using illegal number plates. Among those arrested was a driver caught with a fake diplomatic number plate.
According to the FRSC, preliminary investigations revealed that the diplomatic plate was neither issued nor approved by the appropriate authorities. Findings also showed that the suspect was not a diplomat or attached to any foreign embassy or high commission in Nigeria.
Also Read: http://Dangote Refinery Cuts Jet Fuel Price, Offers Airlines Relief
The suspect has since been handed over to the relevant authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution in line with the law.
Reacting to the development, Rivers State Sector Commander, Francis A Ajatta, warned members of the public against procuring or using fake diplomatic number plates and other unauthorized vehicle identification materials.
Ajatta described the practice as a serious offence capable of undermining national security and public trust. He urged Nigerians to report suspicious vehicles bearing questionable diplomatic or unauthorized number plates to the nearest FRSC office or security agency.
The FRSC reiterated that diplomatic number plates are reserved strictly for accredited diplomats and officially recognized foreign missions operating in Nigeria.
