The Rivers State Police Command has announced a fresh crackdown on vehicles operating with tinted coverings, concealed number plates, or without proper registration as part of efforts to combat rising insecurity in the state.
The command also reaffirmed that restrictions on the movement of tricycles, popularly known as keke, and motorcycles remain fully in effect across Rivers State.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday in Port Harcourt by the state police spokesperson, Blessing Agabe.
According to the statement, the new measures became necessary following increasing incidents of “one-chance” robberies, kidnappings, and other violent crimes reported in Port Harcourt and other parts of the state.
Agabe said the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, had directed officers to immediately arrest anyone found violating the new directives.
“The covering, alteration, driving without plate number or concealment of vehicle plate numbers is strictly prohibited. The Commissioner of Police has directed the arrest of offenders without hesitation,” the statement read.
The police explained that the move aligns with directives issued by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, aimed at strengthening public safety and improving crime prevention nationwide.
As part of the new security measures, commercial mini buses and tricycles fitted with tinted glass or coverings capable of concealing passengers’ identities will no longer be allowed to operate within the state.
Police warned that any vehicle found violating the directive would be impounded, while operators risk arrest and prosecution.
“No commercial keke-bus should be fitted with tinted glass or covered in any manner capable of concealing the identity of passengers or occupants,” the statement added.
The command also reiterated that the operation of unregistered vehicles would no longer be tolerated, urging owners to regularize their documentation immediately.
Authorities stated that the measures would officially take effect from May 18, 2026.
The police further emphasized the importance of collaboration between divisional police officers, community leaders, and local security outfits to improve intelligence gathering and strengthen coordinated responses to crime.
Residents were advised to remain alert while travelling and avoid boarding vehicles in isolated or poorly lit areas, particularly at night.
The command also encouraged commuters to avoid entering vehicles with suspicious occupants or heavily tinted interiors where passengers cannot be clearly identified.
Police advised residents to discreetly document vehicle registration numbers before boarding public transport and share trip details with relatives or trusted contacts whenever possible.
The command assured residents of its continued commitment to protecting lives and property while urging members of the public to cooperate with security agencies in the fight against crime.
