The Rivers State Police Command has announced an immediate ban on mini-commercial buses with tinted windows, unregistered vehicles, and vehicles operating without number plates as part of measures to combat insecurity across the state.
The Command also reaffirmed the restriction on the movement of tricycles, popularly called “Keke,” and motorcycles, stressing that the existing directive remains in force.
In a statement released in Port Harcourt on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Blessing Agabe, said the move followed growing concerns over cases of “one-chance” robberies, kidnappings, and other violent crimes in Port Harcourt and surrounding communities.
Agabe disclosed that the Commissioner of Police in the state, Olugbenga Adepoju, had directed officers to enforce the measures strictly and arrest violators.
“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,” she said.
According to the police spokesperson, the decision aligns with recent directives from the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, against the use of concealed, altered, or absent vehicle registration plates.
She noted that the ongoing restriction on tricycle movement from 10 p.m. remains valid throughout the state, urging operators to comply.
“This enforcement takes immediate effect as part of intensified efforts to curb the growing menace of ‘one-chance’ robberies, abductions, and other violent crimes in Rivers State,” Agabe stated.
The police also announced additional security measures scheduled to begin on May 18, 2026.
“No commercial keke-bus should be fitted with tinted glass or covered in any manner capable of concealing the identity of passengers or occupants. Any commercial keke-bus found violating this directive will be impounded, while the operator will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly,” she added.
The Command further warned against the use of unregistered vehicles in the state, advising owners to regularise their documentation immediately.
“The use of unregistered vehicles within the state is prohibited and will no longer be tolerated. Owners and operators of such vehicles are advised to regularise their documentation without delay,” the statement read.
The police stressed the importance of collaboration with local security outfits, community leaders, and Divisional Police Officers to strengthen intelligence gathering and improve coordinated responses to crime.
Residents were also urged to remain security conscious, particularly while boarding public transport.
“Avoid boarding tricycles, motorcycles, or vehicles from isolated or poorly lit locations, especially at night. Be cautious of vehicles carrying suspicious or unusually aggressive occupants,” Agabe cautioned.
She further advised commuters to avoid vehicles with heavily tinted interiors, share travel details with trusted relatives, and discreetly take note of vehicle registration numbers before boarding.
The Rivers State Police Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, urging residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies in efforts to curb criminal activities.
