ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Borno State Police Command has raised alarm over the growing use of tinted vehicles by criminals, warning that armed robbers, kidnappers, drug traffickers, and terrorists are exploiting such cars to conceal their identities and facilitate illegal activities.
The Command’s spokesperson, ASP Nahum Daso, issued the warning in a statement on Saturday, noting that the discovery was based on Crime Frequency Data gathered by the police.
“Through our Crime Frequency Data, evidence has shown that tinted vehicles have frequently been used to conceal or facilitate serious crimes.
“Armed robbers, kidnappers, drug traffickers, and terrorists have all taken advantage of translucent glass to hide their identities or illicit objects,” Daso said.
READ ALSO: Court Orders Police To Halt Tinted Glass Enforcement
He explained that the data underscores the urgent need for stricter regulation of vehicles with tinted glass across Nigeria.
To illustrate the dangers, Daso cited recent incidents involving tinted cars.
“One stark example is the murder of a University of Maiduguri lecturer on April 2, 2024. After assailants whisked away his vehicle, investigators turned to CCTV footage.
“The car was visible, but the suspects’ faces were impossible to identify because the windows were heavily tinted, delaying justice at a critical stage,” he said.
He also recalled another tragedy on September 26, 2025, when three children suffocated inside a dark-tinted car after accidentally locking themselves in. Passersby, he noted, could not see them in time to intervene.
Daso stressed that while personal use of tinted glass is understandable, unregulated usage poses a national security risk.
“Beyond these, countless cases link tinted vehicles to kidnappings, contraband movement, and armed robbery operations. Criminals exploit the anonymity that dark glass provides. Failing to regulate it leaves law enforcement handicapped and the public vulnerable,” he said.
He clarified, however, that the Nigeria Police Force was not imposing a total ban on tinted cars, as exemptions exist for factory-fitted tints, certain VIPs, and individuals with medical conditions such as photophobia.
“Contrary to misperceptions, the Police are not imposing a blanket ban on tinted vehicles. Legitimate exemptions exist,” Daso explained.
Daso further disclosed that owners of tinted vehicles will now be required to register and obtain digital permits.
“This digital process captures biometric information, NIN, and full vehicle details, creating a verifiable database that strengthens investigations. When a tinted vehicle is linked to a crime, authorities can trace its owner swiftly,” he stated.
He assured that the system will be transparent and resistant to abuse, emphasizing that public cooperation is key.
READ ALSO: Insecurity; Police Reactivate Digital Tinted Glass Permit Nationwide
“The reality is simple: tinted vehicles without proper accountability undermine security. The tragic cases of Maiduguri, alongside countless other incidents nationwide, prove that failure to regulate tinted glass can cost lives,” Daso said.
The police spokesman added that officers had been instructed to act professionally, respect citizens’ rights, and avoid any form of exploitation during enforcement.
“The Nigeria Police Force has made its position clear: officers must act professionally, respect citizens’ rights, and avoid exploitation.
“Commands have been directed to enforce accountability mechanisms, and citizens are encouraged to report unprofessional conduct through the Complaint Response Unit (CRU) for prompt action,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, clarified that the Police had not yet been served with a Federal High Court order directing them to maintain the status quo on the enforcement of the tinted glass permit policy.