Police list three legal reasons to use dealership number plates

The Ogun State Police Command has outlined three legal circumstances where motorists may utilize dealership number plates, emphasizing that these plates should not be employed for ordinary private activities. According to DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the Police Public Relations Officer, the command adheres to Operation VELVET, an initiative led by Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu.

This operation aims to prevent crime by ensuring proper vehicle identification. Babaseyi explained that dealership plates can be legally used when moving an unregistered vehicle from a port to a dealership, when a prospective buyer is inspecting or testing the vehicle, or when the vehicle is being taken to a mechanic or auto shop for repairs.

He stressed that any other use of dealership plates is not valid. The command's objective is to prevent crime, detect stolen vehicles, and tackle improperly registered, concealed, or defaced number plates. Proper identification of vehicles is crucial in combating crimes such as abductions, one-chance robberies, and car theft. Misuse of dealership number plates is a specific concern under Operation VELVET.