Police Ban Artificial Decorative Lights on Vehicles Nationwide

The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has announced a nationwide enforcement drive against the installation and use of unauthorised decorative lights on vehicles, warning motorists that offenders will face legal action.

The directive covers commercial drivers, private vehicle owners, transport operators and other road users. The Police said coloured LED lights, flashing or revolving lights, excessively bright headlamps and other decorative lighting systems can distract or temporarily blind road users, particularly at night, increasing the risk of road traffic crashes.

The SLP said the enforcement is being carried out under Sections 58 (1), (2), (3), (14) and (16) of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2011. Vehicle owners and drivers are required to use only standard, manufacturer-approved lighting systems and other lights permitted by law.

Motorists are also prohibited from using flashing, revolving or excessively bright lights unless authorised by law for emergency or security vehicles. Drivers have been instructed to remove unauthorised decorative and coloured lights fitted to their vehicles.

The Police said enforcement will commence nationwide and may include the removal of prohibited lights from vehicles. Drivers found violating the directive could face appropriate legal action.

The SLP said the measure is aimed at improving road safety, reducing traffic crashes and protecting the lives and property of motorists, pedestrians and other road users. It has urged all motorists and transport operators to comply with the directive and help make Sierra Leone’s roads safer.