Police in Abuja Crack Down on Tinted Vehicles, Seize Over 30 Cars

The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has taken action by seizing over 30 vehicles for using tinted glasses, having covered number plates, and lacking proper registration. This move is part of the enforcement of the ban on tinted vehicles across Abuja.

During a press briefing on Friday, the FCT Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Sanusi, explained that this operation aims to fight the increasing use of such vehicles by criminals involved in robberies, kidnappings, and other violent crimes in the area.

He mentioned that the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has given the command permission to enforce the ban. Sanusi noted that intelligence reports suggest that criminals often choose tinted vehicles and hidden number plates to disguise their identities, avoid getting caught, and hinder police efforts.

Sanusi stated, "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."

The police commissioner explained that this enforcement follows a directive to strictly implement rules against tinted glasses and other traffic violations that could support criminal activities. He added that they have started a focused operation targeting vehicles that break these rules.

Sanusi said, "This exercise is not intended in any way to inconvenience law-abiding citizens, but it is to deny criminals the cover they exploit to operate crimes against innocent citizens and the FCT residents at large."

He revealed that more than 30 vehicles had already been taken during this operation. "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 noted.

The commissioner warned that the owners and drivers of the seized vehicles will face prosecution as per the relevant laws. "The owners and operators of these vehicles will be charged to court in accordance with the laws of the Federation and the FCT Road Transport Regulations Act, 2023," he added.

Sanusi reiterated the command’s commitment to using intelligence for policing and preventing crime. He encouraged residents to support the enforcement actions. He also urged the public to stay alert and report any suspicious people, vehicles, or activities to the nearest police station or via the command’s emergency lines.

"We therefore seek the understanding, cooperation, and support of the public as we continue this enforcement exercise and enforce the ban on the use of such vehicles and the total ban on tinted glasses across the FCT," he said.

The police chief emphasized that this crackdown is part of broader efforts to enhance security and prevent criminals from operating without being noticed in the capital.

The enforcement of the ban on tinted vehicles comes at a time when there is confusion over the Nigeria Police Force’s tinted glass permit policy. On January 1, 2026, the Force had stopped nationwide enforcement of the policy due to an interim court order that blocked its implementation, according to a statement from the then Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin.

Previously, the police had announced on December 15, 2025, that enforcement of the policy would restart from January 2, 2026, as part of actions to strengthen public safety and security. However, it is still unclear if the court order has been lifted or if the suspension is still in place.