The Ghana Police Service has arrested 13 drivers for unlawfully using sirens, flashing emergency lights, and other unauthorized warning devices during a special operation conducted along the Kasoa Winneba Highway.
The exercise formed part of intensified efforts by law enforcement authorities to clamp down on the growing misuse of emergency road privileges by private motorists and commercial vehicle operators.
According to the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) , the operation targeted drivers who had illegally installed and used sirens, strobe lights, and other emergency warning equipment without authorization.
Regulation 74 of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180) strictly limits the use of sirens, horns, bells, and strobe lights as warning appliances to specific categories of vehicles.
Officials say the practice has become increasingly common on some major roads, creating safety concerns and causing confusion for both motorists and road users.
The arrests were made during a targeted enforcement exercise on the Kasoa Winneba Highway, one of the busiest road corridors in the country.
Police officers stationed along the route stopped and inspected several vehicles suspected of using unauthorized emergency equipment.
During the operation, officers identified multiple vehicles fitted with sirens and flashing lights that are legally reserved for approved emergency and security services.
Authorities confirmed that 13 drivers were arrested for violating road traffic regulations governing the use of such devices.
The Ghana Police Service has repeatedly warned that the unauthorized use of sirens and emergency lights poses serious risks to public safety.
Emergency warning systems are specifically reserved for institutions such as the police, fire service, ambulance service, military, and other approved emergency response agencies.
When unauthorized drivers use these devices, they can mislead other road users, disrupt traffic flow, and reduce the effectiveness of genuine emergency responses.
Road safety experts say some motorists illegally install sirens and flashing lights to bypass traffic congestion, intimidate other drivers, or create the impression of official status.
Such actions, authorities warn, undermine road discipline and increase the risk of accidents.
Police officials indicated that the arrested drivers will be processed in accordance with the law.
Investigations are expected to determine how the unauthorized equipment was acquired and whether additional offenses may have been committed.
Authorities also noted that vehicles found with illegally installed sirens or emergency lights could face further sanctions depending on the outcome of investigations.
The police have emphasized that enforcement exercises will continue across different parts of the country as part of broader efforts to improve road safety and ensure compliance with traffic regulations.
The latest operation reflects the Ghana Police Service’s increasing focus on traffic law enforcement and public safety.
In recent months, authorities have expanded operations targeting reckless driving, unauthorized vehicle modifications, fake registration plates, and other traffic related offenses.
Security officials say stricter enforcement is necessary to promote responsible driving and maintain order on the country’s roads.
The Kasoa Winneba Highway remains one of Ghana’s most heavily used transport routes, carrying thousands of commuters and commercial vehicles daily.
Police believe continued enforcement along major highways will help reduce dangerous driving practices and improve overall road safety.
Authorities have therefore urged motorists to comply with traffic laws and avoid installing unauthorized equipment that could attract criminal sanctions.
The arrests serve as a warning that drivers who misuse emergency road privileges or violate traffic regulations may face legal consequences.
