The Katsina State Police Command has begun a statewide operation targeting vehicles operating without valid registration as part of efforts to strengthen security and improve crime detection across the state.

The enforcement exercise, which commenced on Thursday, follows a directive from the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, aimed at enhancing internal security and curbing criminal activities nationwide.

In a statement issued in Katsina, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu, said the operation would focus on vehicles using unregistered, forged, duplicated or improperly displayed number plates.

According to him, the exercise will also target vehicles with number plates that are concealed, defaced, mutilated, altered or covered in a manner that obstructs proper identification.

Sadiq-Aliyu explained that the command had observed a growing trend among criminal elements who use hidden, missing or unauthorised registration plates to evade identification and frustrate law enforcement efforts.

He noted that such practices pose significant security risks by hindering proactive policing and making the investigation and detection of crimes more difficult.

The spokesman disclosed that the Commissioner of Police in the state, Aliyu Fage, had directed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Commanders to immediately enforce compliance across all parts of the state.

He warned that any vehicle found violating registration regulations would be impounded, investigated and the owners prosecuted in accordance with relevant laws.

The police urged motorists to regularise their vehicle documentation and ensure that their number plates are properly affixed, visible and fully compliant with legal requirements.

Sadiq-Aliyu also said the commissioner had instructed officers participating in the operation to conduct themselves professionally and treat members of the public with respect.

He stressed that acts of extortion, harassment or intimidation by police personnel would not be tolerated and would attract strict disciplinary measures.

The command encouraged residents to report any misconduct by officers through designated emergency lines or the Police Public Relations Office.

It also appealed to the public to provide information on suspicious vehicles operating under questionable circumstances, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding lives and property through proactive policing.

The police expressed confidence that the enforcement drive would improve vehicle identification, enhance public safety and support ongoing efforts to combat crime across Katsina State.