With the Nigeria Police Force initiating the enforcement of the Tinted Glass Permit policy, the Borno State Police Command has revealed that criminals-including armed robbers, kidnappers, drug dealers, and terrorists-have been leveraging tinted vehicles to execute their unlawful schemes.
ASP Nahum Daso, the Command’s spokesperson, disclosed this information in a statement issued on Saturday, October 4. He emphasized that analysis of Crime Frequency Data has exposed the frequent use of tinted car windows as a tool for concealing criminal acts.
“Our Crime Frequency Data clearly indicates that tinted vehicles are often employed to mask identities or smuggle illegal items. This tactic is commonly used by armed robbers, kidnappers, drug traffickers, and terrorists,” ASP Daso explained.
To illustrate the risks posed by unregulated tinted windows, he cited recent incidents.
“A notable case occurred on April 2, 2024, involving the murder of a University of Maiduguri lecturer. After the assailants commandeered his car, investigators relied on CCTV footage. Although the vehicle was captured, the suspects’ faces remained obscured due to the heavily tinted windows, significantly hindering the investigation,” he recounted.
ASP Daso also referenced a heartbreaking event on September 26, 2025, when three children tragically died from suffocation after locking themselves inside a vehicle with dark-tinted windows. Bystanders were unable to detect their distress in time to provide assistance.
He underscored the importance of regulating tinted glass to balance public safety with legitimate personal use.
“Numerous cases link tinted vehicles to kidnappings, smuggling, and armed robberies. The concealment offered by dark glass enables criminals to operate with impunity. Without proper regulation, law enforcement efforts are severely compromised, leaving the public exposed,” he stated.
The police spokesperson clarified that certain exceptions apply, such as factory-installed tinted windows, VIPs, and individuals with medical conditions like photophobia.
“Contrary to some beliefs, this is not an outright ban on tinted vehicles. Legitimate exemptions are recognized and respected,” he affirmed.
He further explained that owners of vehicles with tinted windows must now register and obtain permits through a digital system.
“The registration process involves capturing biometric data, National Identification Number (NIN), and comprehensive vehicle information, establishing a reliable database. This enables swift identification of vehicle owners when linked to criminal activities,” ASP Daso elaborated.
He reassured the public that this initiative is not intended to target or stigmatize Nigerians unfairly.
“The fact remains: unregulated tinted vehicles pose a significant security threat. The tragic Maiduguri incident and many others nationwide demonstrate the deadly consequences of ignoring this issue.
The Nigeria Police Force is committed to professionalism, safeguarding citizens’ rights, and preventing abuse. Officers have been instructed to enforce these regulations responsibly, and the public is encouraged to report any misconduct through the Complaint Response Unit (CRU) for timely intervention,” he concluded.
0 Comments