Following intelligence reports that terrorist groups and gunmen, who have been killing innocent people and destroying property across the country use tinted glasses, Police spy number plates and sirens to deceive both security personnel and unsuspecting members of the public, Inspector General of Police, MD Abubakar has ordered a ban on indiscriminate use of these security items. In a statement signed by Deputy Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Frank Mba, the IGP said the ban on the indiscriminate use of siren, revolving lights, tinted glasses and Police Supernumerary (SPY) number plates by unauthorized person or persons on public highways across the country takes immediate effect. Criminals hide under official privileges According to the statement, “this order has become imperative in view of recent security reports that indicate that suspected criminals now hide under the cover of official privileges and courtesies associated with the use of sirens, revolving lights and Supernumerary (SPY Police) plate numbers to commit crimes and beat Police and other security checks, thereby evading arrest and prosecution. “In view of the negative security consequences associated with such unrestrained infringement of relevant laws associated with the use of sirens, revolving lights, tinted glasses and SPY numbers; the IGP has directed all Zonal AIGs and Command Commissioners of Police to ensure that all violators of the laws within their jurisdictions are arrested and brought to book”, he added. Continuing the Police boss said: “We wish to state clearly, that the Nigeria Police Force can no longer fold its arms and allow few Nigerians turn our highways into dangerous and lawless theatre – harassing, intimidating and endangering the lives and property of other road users through the reckless and indiscriminate use of sirens. “In the same vein, members of the public are reminded that SPY plate numbers are only to be used on operational vehicles of banks and companies so assigned to, and cannot be used by private persons (VIPs and executives of corporate organizations inclusive) under any guise whatsoever. “Citizens are therefore advised to immediately dismantle/remove from their vehicles, all unlawfully procured revolving lights, sirens, tinted glasses and SPY plate numbers as Police officers nationwide have been directed to ensure strict enforcement of all extant laws regulating their usage. “In addition, the Police High Command wishes to advise owners of vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles plying the nation’s roads and highways without plate numbers to take urgent steps and register such automobiles immediately. “Citizens are reminded that it is unlawful to operate automobiles on our highways without registration. Person (s) found violating this very important traffic rule will be dealt with in accordance with the law”. Concluding, it said: “The IGP wishes to reassure the public of the commitment of the Force to the provision of round-the-clock security for the teeming citizens of the country. In the same vein, citizens are reminded of their civic responsibility of obedience to all laws of the State and thus advised to conduct their daily interactions and businesses within the confines of the law. “Citizens are further enjoined to continue to support and assist the Police in its constitutional task of safeguarding the nation”.