The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has impounded more than 30 vehicles for violating regulations on tinted glass, obscured number plates, and improper vehicle registration as authorities intensify efforts to combat crime across Abuja.
The enforcement exercise, which commenced on Friday, follows a directive from the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, authorising the strict implementation of existing restrictions on tinted vehicles and related traffic offences.
Addressing journalists in Abuja, FCT Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Sanusi, said intelligence reports revealed that criminal elements frequently exploit tinted vehicles and concealed number plates to evade identification and law enforcement detection.
According to Sanusi, the operation is aimed at curbing crimes such as kidnapping, one-chance robberies, and other violent offences that have become a growing security concern within the Federal Capital Territory.
“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,” he said.
Over 30 Vehicles Already Seized
The police commissioner disclosed that more than 30 vehicles had already been impounded since the commencement of the operation.
He noted that the affected vehicles were found operating with tinted glasses, covered or obscured number plates, or without proper registration documentation.
Sanusi stressed that the enforcement exercise is not intended to harass law-abiding residents but to deny criminals the anonymity often provided by such vehicles.
“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 residents of the FCT,” he stated.
Violators Face Prosecution
The police warned that vehicle owners and operators found violating the regulations would be prosecuted in line with relevant laws, including the FCT Road Transport Regulations Act, 2023.
Authorities also urged residents to support the security initiative by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities, persons, or vehicles through designated police channels.
Sanusi reaffirmed the command’s commitment to intelligence-driven policing and proactive crime prevention, describing the operation as part of broader efforts to strengthen security across the nation’s capital.
The renewed crackdown comes amid lingering uncertainty surrounding the status of the Nigeria Police Force’s tinted glass permit policy.
On January 1, 2026, the police suspended nationwide enforcement of the policy following an interim court order that restrained its implementation. The suspension was announced by former Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin.
The force had earlier planned to resume enforcement on January 2, 2026, as part of measures designed to enhance public safety and internal security.
However, it remains unclear whether the court order has since been vacated or if the suspension remains legally effective nationwide.
