FRSC recovers stolen Toyota Corolla in Nnewi through NVIS technology

Cityscope, Crime Diary

NNEWI, NIGERIA, April 6, 2026 (NPA) — The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has achieved another milestone in its fight against vehicle-related crimes with the recovery of a stolen Toyota Corolla in Nnewi, Anambra State. The breakthrough was made possible through the National Vehicle Identification Scheme (NVIS), underscoring the Corps’ growing reliance on technology to enhance national security.

The incident occurred on April 4, 2026, when an attempt was made to process proof of ownership documents at the NVIS Desk Office. During verification, the chassis number presented raised suspicion. Acting on professional instinct, the NVIS Officer requested a physical inspection of the vehicle. A deeper check revealed discrepancies in the database, exposing the car’s true identity and linking it to its rightful owner, Mr. Onyechi Dickson Eze of Awka. Eze confirmed that the vehicle had been forcefully taken from him during a kidnapping incident on January 23, 2023.

Following the discovery, the Nigeria Police Force Area Command, Nnewi, and the State Criminal Investigation Bureau (SCIB) were immediately notified. A coordinated operation involving FRSC, the Police, and the Motor Licensing Authority (MLA) Ojoto led to the arrest of both the applicant and the agent who facilitated fraudulent documentation. The vehicle was recovered at 1654HRS and is now in police custody for further investigation.

Preliminary findings revealed deliberate modifications intended to conceal the car’s identity. Its original red color had been changed to gray, and an unassigned number plate (NZM135AQ) was affixed. Despite these alterations, the NVIS platform successfully uncovered the vehicle’s true details.

This recovery highlights the critical role of NVIS in tracing stolen vehicles, deterring fraud, and reinforcing public safety. The FRSC reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, due diligence, and collaboration with law enforcement agencies, urging citizens to verify documentation before purchasing vehicles.