The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has expressed strong concerns over the widespread use of heavily tinted vehicles in Nigeria, stating that he would ban all tinted vehicles if he had the authority to do so.

Disu made the remark while speaking on security challenges associated with tinted vehicles, noting that many criminal elements exploit darkened windows to conceal their identities and activities from law enforcement agencies.

According to the police chief, investigations into several criminal cases, including kidnappings, armed robberies, and “one-chance” operations, have revealed that suspects often use heavily tinted vehicles to evade detection.

He said the trend poses a significant threat to public safety and hampers the ability of security personnel to effectively carry out surveillance and stop-and-search operations.

“If I have my way, there would be no tinted vehicles in the country,” the IGP said, stressing that such vehicles have become a major tool for criminal activities.

Disu explained that while the law permits the use of factory-fitted tinted glass and grants permits for specific medical or security reasons, many motorists abuse the privilege by installing excessively dark tints that make it impossible to identify vehicle occupants.

The IGP disclosed that the Nigeria Police Force is strengthening enforcement of regulations governing tinted glass permits and may intensify operations against vehicles operating with illegal tints.

He warned that offenders could face sanctions, including the impoundment of their vehicles. The comments have generated mixed reactions among Nigerians.

While some citizens support stricter regulations as a means of improving security and reducing crime, others have expressed concerns about possible harassment by law enforcement officers and called for transparent implementation of existing laws.

The renewed focus on tinted vehicles forms part of broader efforts by the Nigeria Police Force to enhance public safety, improve crime prevention, and strengthen intelligence gathering across the country.