Police officers in Nairobi have recovered a large number of suspected stolen motor vehicle number plates during an operation carried out in Kariobangi South.
The recovery was made on Saturday after officers received information from members of the public about suspicious activities taking place in a residential house within the area.
The information suggested that the house was being used to illegally process and store vehicle identification materials.
Officers from Buruburu and Dandora Police Stations moved swiftly to verify the information. After conducting surveillance, the police raided the house and found many items linked to the illegal manufacture and alteration of motor vehicle registration plates.
The operation was conducted without incident, although the main suspect managed to escape shortly before the officers arrived.
During the search, police recovered a total of 34 complete motor vehicle registration plates. In addition, officers found 67 incomplete plates made up of mixed front and rear sections, as well as 34 half-cut plates.
These plates are suspected to have been prepared for alteration or reassembly to disguise the identity of stolen vehicles.
Police also seized three rolls of chassis number stickers, which are commonly used to alter or replace original vehicle identification details.
Other items recovered include one roll of blue iron sheeting and two rolls of reflective sheets in white and yellow.
These materials are usually used in the production of number plates to match official standards.
Several number plate frames were also found at the premises, strengthening suspicions that the location was being used as an illegal workshop for vehicle registration materials.
According to police, the suspect linked to the house narrowly escaped arrest and is now being traced. Investigations are ongoing to identify the suspect and establish links to wider criminal networks involved in vehicle theft and fraud. The recovered items have all been secured and recorded as exhibits.
They will undergo forensic examination to help police determine their origin and whether they are connected to reported cases of stolen vehicles in Nairobi and other parts of the country.
The National Police Service has praised the officers involved for their swift response and professionalism during the operation. The Service also acknowledged the role played by members of the public, noting that timely sharing of information helped make the operation a success.
Police emphasized that public cooperation remains key in fighting crime, especially offences that affect road safety and public trust.
The National Police Service reaffirmed its commitment to cracking down on vehicle-related crimes, including the falsification of registration numbers and the trade in stolen vehicle parts.
Police have assured the public that operations will continue in areas suspected to host illegal activities linked to motor vehicle theft. Investigations remain active as authorities work to ensure those responsible are arrested and brought to justice.
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