FRSC Recovers Stolen Vehicle In Nnewi Through NVIS Verification
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has recovered a suspected stolen Toyota Corolla at its National Vehicle Identification Scheme (NVIS) Desk Office in Nnewi, Anambra State.
The recovery, which occurred on April 4, 2026, followed a routine verification process triggered during an attempt to process proof of ownership documents on the NVIS portal.
In a statement, the Corps Public Education Officer, Deputy Corps Commander Osondu Ohaeri, said the chassis number presented by the applicant raised suspicion during scrutiny, prompting further investigation by the NVIS officer.
According to him, detailed checks revealed discrepancies linking the vehicle to an already registered car in the database.
“The officer, acting on professional instinct and standard procedures, requested a physical verification of the chassis number.
This led to the discovery of the vehicle’s true identity and its rightful owner,” he said.
The vehicle was identified as belonging to Mr. Onyechi Dickson Eze of Awka, Anambra State.
Further investigation showed that the car had been forcefully taken from its owner during a kidnapping incident on January 23, 2023.
Following the discovery, the FRSC alerted the Nigeria Police Force Area Command in Nnewi, which led to the involvement of the State Criminal Investigation Bureau (SCIB).
A joint operation involving FRSC officials, the police, and the Motor Licensing Authority (MLA) Ojoto resulted in the arrest of the agent who facilitated the fraudulent documentation, along with the applicant.
The vehicle was subsequently recovered at about 4:54 p.m. on April 4, 2026, and is currently in the custody of the State Investigation Bureau (SIB) Unit of the Nigeria Police Force Area Command, Nnewi, for further investigation.
Preliminary findings indicated that the vehicle had been deliberately altered to conceal its identity. Its original red colour had been changed to grey, and an unassigned number plate (NZM135AQ) was affixed to it.
Despite these modifications, the FRSC said the integrity of the NVIS platform enabled accurate identification of the vehicle.
The Corps noted that the recovery underscores the importance of the National Vehicle Identification Scheme in enhancing vehicle traceability, combating vehicle related crimes, and strengthening national security.
It added that the case highlights the Corps’ commitment to due diligence, professionalism, and inter agency collaboration in safeguarding lives and property.
The FRSC further disclosed that the recovery is part of a growing number of stolen vehicles traced through the NVIS platform in 2026, reflecting ongoing efforts to curb vehicle theft and fraudulent registration nationwide.
The Corps urged members of the public to ensure proper documentation and verification of vehicle particulars before purchase and to continue supporting law enforcement agencies in tackling vehicle related crimes.
