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The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has uncovered a criminal network involved in the illegal production and use of fake diplomatic and official government number plates allegedly used by criminals to evade security checks and gain access to restricted locations. Commissioner of Police Ahmed Sanusi said the investigation, launched after intelligence reports of widespread abuse of diplomatic plates, has led to the recovery of more than 80 fake presidency and diplomatic number plates and the identification of those behind the operation.
Sanusi disclosed that investigations revealed buyers paid between ₦500,000 and ₦1.7 million for the counterfeit number plates, suggesting they were acquired to facilitate serious criminal activities. He added that suspects found with the fake plates are already in police custody, while the manufacturers—believed to be operating outside the FCT—have been identified and are being tracked. The police withheld the identities of the suspects to avoid jeopardising ongoing operations.
The police also announced the recovery of stolen public infrastructure, including drainage covers, solar-powered street lights, armoured electricity cables and internet communication cables, during intelligence-led operations across several parts of Abuja. Sanusi warned scrap dealers and other buyers of stolen government property that the command would dismantle the entire criminal network, while urging residents to report suspicious vehicles bearing diplomatic or official number plates for verification.
