The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has uncovered a network producing and using fake diplomatic and government number plates while also recovering vandalized public infrastructure across Abuja.
Police Commissioner Ahmed Sanusi disclosed this during a briefing on Friday, saying the operation followed intelligence reports linking the fake plates to criminal activities and security breaches.
According to him, stolen items recovered include drainage covers, solar-powered street lights, armored electricity cables, and internet cables taken from areas such as Maitama, Garki, Jabi, Apo, Lugbe, and Nyanya.
Five suspects were arrested in connection with the vandalism.
Sanusi described the destruction of public infrastructure as “economic sabotage,” noting that it contributes to accidents, power outages, and increased crime due to poor street lighting.
He said investigations also exposed a wider syndicate responsible for producing and distributing fake diplomatic and official number plates, often used by criminals to evade security checks and access restricted locations.
Security agencies have repeatedly raised concerns over the growing misuse of diplomatic plates, which are increasingly linked to fraud and other crimes across Nigeria.
Sanusi revealed that some suspects paid between ₦500,000 and ₦1.7 million to obtain the fake plates, indicating organized criminal intent.
He added that those arrested are in custody and will be charged in court, while the manufacturers, believed to be operating outside Abuja, have been identified and are being tracked.
The police also warned scrap dealers and buyers of stolen infrastructure, saying investigations would extend across the entire supply chain.
Recovered items will be returned to the FCT Administration for reinstallation.
Residents were urged to report suspicious vehicles bearing diplomatic plates, as the command intensifies efforts to curb crime through intelligence-led policing.
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