Criminals hide behind tinted vehicles to commit crimes – Police

As the Nigeria Police Force commence the enforcement of the Tinted Glass Permit, the Borno State Police command has said that armed robbers, k!dnappers, drug peddlers, and terrorists have devised means of using tinted vehicles to carry out their nefarious activities.

The Command’s spokesperson, ASP Nahum Daso, said this in a statement released on Saturday, October 4. He mentioned that the use of tinted car windows to perpetuate crime was uncovered through Crime Frequency Data.

“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 tinted glasses to hide their identities or illicit objects” Daso said

He highlighted recent examples to show the dangers posed by unchecked tinted windows.

“One stark example is the m#rder 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 explained.

Daso also recalled a separate tragedy on September 26, 2025, when three children suffocated inside a dark-tinted car after locking themselves in. He said passersby could not see them in time to intervene.

He stressed that regulation was necessary to strike a balance between public safety and legitimate personal use.

“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

The police spokesman clarified that exemptions exist, noting that factory-fitted tinted windows, some VIPs, and individuals with medical conditions such as photophobia will not be affected.

“Contrary to misperceptions, the Police are not imposing a blanket ban on tinted vehicles. Legitimate exemptions exist”he said

Daso explained that owners of tinted vehicles would now be required to register and secure 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 citizens that the system would not be used to vilify Nigerians.

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