The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has recovered a vehicle stolen during a kidnapping incident in 2023, in what officials described as a major breakthrough enabled by the National Vehicle Identification Scheme (NVIS).
The Toyota Corolla was intercepted at the NVIS Desk Office in Nnewi, Anambra State, on April 4, 2026, during a routine verification process. The recovery was triggered when an applicant attempted to process proof of ownership documents on the NVIS portal, but discrepancies in the chassis number raised suspicion.
According to the Corps, further scrutiny by the NVIS officer revealed that the chassis number was already linked to an existing vehicle in the database. This prompted a physical inspection of the vehicle, which confirmed inconsistencies and ultimately exposed its true identity.
Investigations showed that the vehicle belonged to Mr. Onyechi Dickson Eze of Awka, who confirmed that it had been forcefully taken from him during a kidnapping incident on January 23, 2023.
Following the discovery, the Nigeria Police Force Area Command in Nnewi was alerted, leading to the involvement of the State Criminal Investigation Bureau (SCIB). A joint operation involving FRSC personnel, the Police, and the Motor Licensing Authority (MLA) in Ojoto led to the arrest of the agent who processed the fraudulent documentation and the applicant.
The vehicle was recovered later that day at about 4:54 p.m. and has since been placed in the custody of the State Investigation Bureau (SIB) of the Nigeria Police Force in Nnewi for further investigation.
Preliminary findings revealed that the suspects had altered the vehicle’s original red colour to gray and affixed an unassigned number plate in an attempt to conceal its identity. Despite these modifications, the NVIS system successfully flagged the discrepancies.
FRSC officials said the recovery underscores the effectiveness of the NVIS platform in tracking vehicles, combating theft, and strengthening national security.
The Corps noted that the latest operation added to a growing number of stolen vehicles recovered through the NVIS in 2026, reaffirmed its commitment to curbing vehicle-related crimes and fraudulent registration practices.
The FRSC also urged members of the public to verify vehicle documents thoroughly before purchase and to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in tackling criminal activities.
