The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has impounded more than 30 vehicles for operating with tinted glasses, obscured number plates, and improper registration as authorities commence enforcement of the tinted glass ban across Abuja.
Speaking to journalists on Friday, FCT Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Sanusi, said the operation is aimed at tackling the increasing use of such vehicles by criminals involved in one-chance robberies, kidnappings, and other violent crimes within the territory.
According to the police commissioner, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has authorised the command to begin strict enforcement of the regulations.
Sanusi explained that intelligence reports indicate that criminal elements often exploit tinted vehicles and concealed number plates to hide their identities, evade detection, and frustrate law enforcement efforts.
“The IG has given us the mandate to begin the enforcement of the ban on the use of tinted vehicles and other offences as earlier stated. Intelligence reports at the disposal of the command indicate that many criminal elements deliberately use such vehicles to conceal their identities, evade detection, and frustrate law enforcement efforts. This poses a serious threat to public safety,” he said.
The commissioner noted that the enforcement exercise follows directives aimed at strengthening security and eliminating traffic-related violations that could aid criminal activities.
As part of the operation, the command launched a comprehensive crackdown on vehicles found in breach of the regulations.
“This exercise is not intended to inconvenience law-abiding citizens but to deny criminals the cover they exploit to commit crimes against innocent residents,” Sanusi added.
Over 30 Vehicles Already Seized
The police boss disclosed that more than 30 vehicles have already been impounded since the commencement of the enforcement campaign.
“As part of this ongoing enforcement, over 30 vehicles found to be operating with tinted glasses, covered or obscured number plates, and without proper registration have been impounded,” he stated.
He warned that owners and operators of the affected vehicles would face prosecution under relevant laws, including the FCT Road Transport Regulations Act, 2023.
Police Seek Public Support
Sanusi reaffirmed the command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing and proactive crime prevention, urging residents to support the ongoing exercise by reporting suspicious vehicles and activities.
He encouraged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly provide useful information through police stations and emergency channels.
According to him, the operation forms part of broader security measures aimed at preventing criminals from operating undetected within the nation’s capital.
Uncertainty Over National Tinted Permit Policy
The renewed enforcement comes amid lingering uncertainty surrounding the Nigeria Police Force’s tinted glass permit policy.
On January 1, 2026, the Nigeria Police suspended nationwide enforcement of the permit policy following an interim court order that restrained its implementation. The suspension was announced by then Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin.
Although the police had earlier planned to resume enforcement on January 2, 2026, it remains unclear whether the court order has been vacated or if the suspension is still in force.
