Kano Police Arrest 123 Over Fake, Concealed Number Plates, Recover Pistol

The Kano State Police Command has arrested 123 motorists for allegedly using fake, concealed, or missing vehicle registration plates as part of a statewide security crackdown aimed at disrupting criminal activities.

The operation, codenamed Operation Clean Plate, also led to the arrest of a 51-year-old suspect found with a pistol, suspected cannabis sativa, a knife, electric cables, 120 lithium batteries, and a vehicle believed to have been stolen.

Kano State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, disclosed the development on Monday while briefing journalists at the Command Headquarters in Bompai.

According to Bakori, the operation was launched to tackle the growing use of unregistered or concealed number plates by criminal elements seeking to avoid identification during security checks and investigations.

He said officers have intercepted dozens of vehicles across several local government areas since the exercise began, with all 123 motorists already charged before the court.

“This is not a mere traffic violation. It is a deliberate tactic employed by criminals to create anonymity, commit crimes and evade detection,” Bakori said.

He added that the police would not allow Kano’s roads to become safe routes for criminals operating without proper vehicle identification.

The commissioner revealed that on July 9, 2026, officers attached to the Panshekara Police Division intercepted a vehicle travelling without a registration plate. The driver reportedly attempted to flee but was eventually arrested.

A search of the suspect and the vehicle allegedly uncovered a pistol, cannabis, a knife, electric wires, 120 lithium batteries, and a suspected stolen vehicle. The suspect has since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further investigation.

Police say investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the recovered firearm and whether the suspect is linked to a wider criminal syndicate.

Bakori assured residents that Operation Clean Plate would continue across all 44 local government areas of Kano State as part of efforts to strengthen public safety and close security gaps exploited by criminals.

He urged motorists to properly register their vehicles, obtain approved number plates, and avoid covering or altering vehicle identification.

The commissioner also called on residents to support security agencies by providing credible information that could aid crime prevention.

While reaffirming the Command’s commitment to professionalism, Bakori warned officers against misconduct during enforcement operations, stressing that any complaints from members of the public would be investigated.

He reiterated that the Kano State Police Command remains committed to protecting lives and property while intensifying efforts to combat crime across the state.