Police Begin Enforcement of Tinted Glass, Siren Rules in Edo and Delta
The police in Edo and Delta States have commenced strict enforcement of regulations governing tinted vehicle glass, unauthorised sirens, revolving lights, and defaced number plates. The move, which began on Thursday, October 2, follows the expiration of a nationwide grace period granted to motorists to obtain the required permits.
In separate statements, the Edo and Delta State Police Commands warned that motorists who fail to comply with the law will face sanctions, including arrest, fines, and possible seizure of vehicles. Officers have been directed to focus on vehicles with tinted glass without valid permits, cars using unauthorised sirens or strobe lights, and number plates that are obscured, flipped, defaced, or improperly affixed.
The Delta State Police Commissioner stressed that the measures were aimed at curbing intimidation on the roads and preventing the misuse of security features by unauthorised individuals.
“Only those duly entitled to use sirens and revolving lights will be allowed to do so. Private individuals who deploy them to flout traffic regulations will be sanctioned,” he said.
In Edo, police officials highlighted the importance of ensuring visibility inside vehicles, noting that obscured interiors had often been used by criminals to evade detection. Motorists were reminded that both factory-fitted and aftermarket tinted glass require permits, which can be obtained through the official police portal.
The Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act of 1991, alongside directives issued by the Inspector-General of Police, provides the legal framework for the enforcement. The law prohibits the use of tinted or treated glass that conceals occupants of a vehicle unless authorised.
The authorities also emphasised compliance with other documentation requirements, including valid driver’s licences, proof of insurance, and proper vehicle registration.
While police say the crackdown is designed to promote public safety and order, the policy has generated debate.
The Nigerian Bar Association has previously questioned the legality of tinted glass permits, warning that enforcement could lead to abuse or extortion. Nevertheless, police in both states insist that the exercise will be carried out with professionalism.
The campaign is expected to run indefinitely, with regular patrols and checkpoints across Edo and Delta aimed at ensuring full compliance with the regulations.
