Lagos govt warns motorists against fake vehicle documents, set to arrest offenders
The Lagos State Ministry of Transportation has warned motorists across the state to avoid dealing with unauthorized agents issuing fake vehicle documents, saying such practices are illegal and punishable by law.
The ministry, in a statement, raised the alarm after observing that some individuals have been producing and distributing fake documents, including roadworthiness certificates and other vehicle particulars, to unsuspecting members of the public.
“The Lagos State Ministry of Transportation has noticed that some unscrupulous individuals are issuing fake vehicle documents like Roadworthiness Certificates and other Vehicle Particulars to unsuspecting motorists across the State,” the statement said.
Condemning the development, the Ministry stressed that vehicle documentation is strictly handled by approved agencies under its supervision, and any document obtained outside these channels is not valid.
“The Ministry strongly condemns this fraudulent practice and wishes to state unequivocally that vehicle documentation is a statutory function carried out only by duly authorized agencies of the Ministry,” the statement added.
It warned that motorists who obtain such fake documents risk facing legal consequences, as well as posing a threat to public safety on the roads.
“Any document issued outside these official channels is invalid and constitutes a serious offence. Motorists are hereby advised to desist from patronizing unauthorized individuals or groups for vehicle documentation, as doing so not only endangers public safety but also exposes them to legal consequences,” the statement stated.
The Ministry further disclosed that it is working with security agencies to clamp down on those behind the illegal activity, noting that enforcement actions have been stepped up across the state.
“The Ministry assures the public that in collaboration with security agencies, enforcement operations have been intensified to apprehend those involved in this illegal activity,” the statement noted.
It added that anyone found engaging in the act will face strict penalties in line with the law.
“Anyone caught engaging in such acts will be made to face the full wrath of the law,” the statement warned.
Residents were also advised to always confirm the authenticity of service providers before engaging them and to report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.
“Members of the public are encouraged to verify the authenticity of service providers before engaging them and report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities,” the statement noted.
