The Rivers State Police Command has reaffirmed the restriction on the movement of tricycles from 10:00 p.m. across the state as part of renewed efforts to tackle rising cases of “one-chance” robberies, abductions, and other violent crimes.
In a press release issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo, the Command said the directive is in line with the instructions of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju.
The Command warned operators and owners of tricycles to comply strictly with the restriction, stressing that offenders and criminal elements involved in “one-chance” activities would be decisively dealt with in accordance with the law.
According to the statement, additional security measures approved by the Commissioner of Police will take effect from May 18, 2026.
The new measures prohibit commercial tricycles, popularly known as Keke-buses, from using tinted glass or any form of covering capable of concealing the identity of passengers or occupants. The Police said any tricycle found violating the directive would be impounded, while the operator would be arrested and prosecuted.
The Command also banned the covering, alteration, concealment, or use of vehicles without number plates, directing officers to arrest violators without hesitation.
It further warned against the use of unregistered vehicles within the state, advising owners and operators to regularize their vehicle documentation immediately.
The Police Command also called for stronger collaboration between local security outfits, community stakeholders, and Divisional Police Officers within their jurisdictions to improve intelligence gathering and coordinated security responses across the state.
As part of efforts to sensitize residents, the Command advised members of the public to avoid boarding vehicles, motorcycles, or tricycles in isolated or poorly lit areas, especially at night.
Residents were also urged to avoid vehicles with heavily tinted interiors, be cautious of suspicious occupants, refrain from displaying valuables openly, and always share trip details with trusted relatives or friends.
The Police further advised commuters to discreetly take note of vehicle registration numbers before boarding and send such details to relatives when necessary.
The Command urged residents to report suspicious movements or emergencies through its Complaint Response Unit lines: 07057605209, 07057605256, 08120822987, and 07072323049, or the Control Room line: 08032003514.
The Rivers State Police Command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and urged residents to remain vigilant, law-abiding, and cooperative with security agencies in the fight against crime and criminality.
