Police Uncover Fake Diplomatic, Government Number Plate Network in FCT

The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has uncovered a criminal network involved in the production and use of fake diplomatic and official government number plates while recovering large quantities of vandalised public infrastructure across Abuja.

Commissioner of Police Ahmed Sanusi disclosed the development on Friday during a press briefing at the command headquarters in Abuja.

According to him, the operation also led to the recovery of stolen drainage covers, solar-powered street lights, armoured electricity cables and internet communication cables removed from various parts of the Federal Capital Territory.

Sanusi said the recoveries followed intelligence-driven operations and proactive anti-crime patrols conducted in Maitama, Garki, Durumi, Jabi, Apo Legislative Quarters, Lugbe and Nyanya.

He identified five suspects arrested in connection with the recovered items as Godwin Aja, Mustapha Nasiru, Ibrahim Garba, Abdulrasheed Sale and Dabarani Mujitafa.

The police commissioner described the destruction and theft of public infrastructure as economic sabotage with severe consequences for residents and public safety.

According to him, the removal of drainage covers has contributed to road accidents and injuries, while the theft of solar street lights has increased insecurity in affected areas by leaving streets in darkness.

He added that the theft of armoured electricity and internet cables had disrupted power supply and communication services in several communities.

“The removal of drainage covers, solar street lights, armoured cables and internet communication cables worth millions of naira has directly contributed to road traffic accidents, injuries to pedestrians, increased incidents of street crime and disruption of electricity supply,” Sanusi said.

He warned scrap dealers and buyers of stolen public infrastructure that the command had expanded its investigation to dismantle the entire criminal network responsible for the illegal trade.

“I want to send a clear warning to all purchasers, receivers and dealers in stolen public infrastructure that the FCT Police Command is coming after you,” he stated.

Sanusi said investigations were ongoing to identify everyone involved in the supply, distribution and disposal of stolen government property.

He also announced the recovery of several fake diplomatic and official government number plates allegedly used by criminals to evade security checks and gain unauthorised access to restricted locations.

The commissioner assured residents that the recovered public infrastructure would be handed over to the Federal Capital Territory Administration for reinstallation as part of efforts to restore damaged facilities and improve public safety across the territory.