Ondo: 15 docked for driving unregistered, covered vehicles

By Ayorinde Oluokun

The Ondo State Police said it has arrested and arraigned 15 motorists in court for driving vehicles with no registration numbers or covered number plates in line with the recent directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu.

According to the Command, the directive was aimed at curbing the operation of vehicles with either covered or without registration number plates to strict compliance with extant traffic regulations across the country.

The Command, in a statement by its spokesperson, Abayomi Jimoh said in line with this directive it commenced a coordinated vehicular compliance and enforcement operation across Ondo state from 22nd June 2026 as part of efforts to enhance public safety, strengthen security monitoring and discourage the use of unregistered vehicles which are often exploited by criminal elements to evade identification and detection.

During the operation, Jimoh said 15 vehicles operating with either no registration numbers or covered number plates were intercepted.

“Following preliminary checks, the vehicles were handed over to the State Traffic Department for further action and prosecution of the respective offenders has commenced at the competent court,” the Ondo Police spokesperson added.

He quoted Ondo Commissioner of Police as reiterating that the enforcement of the IGP’s directive will be continuous.

The Commissioner also assured that the enforcement operation is not intended to inconvenience law-abiding citizens but rather to strengthen security architecture and improve the capacity of law enforcement agencies to effectively identify vehicles and their owners when investigating crimes.

He noted that vehicles with covered and without registration number plates pose significant security challenges and can be used to facilitate criminal activities, thereby necessitating strict enforcement measures.

“The Command therefore urges all vehicle owners and road users to ensure that their vehicles are properly registered and fitted with valid registration number plates at all times. Members of the public are advised to comply with all traffic regulations and cooperate with law enforcement officers in the discharge of their lawful duties.

“The Ondo State Police Command remains committed to protecting lives and property and will continue to implement proactive measures geared towards maintaining law and order across the state. The Command assures residents that similar enforcement operations will be sustained in line with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police to promote safer communities and enhance public confidence in policing,” said the spokesperson.