Sri Lanka Police to relaunch crackdown on unauthorized vehicle modifications from July 1, targeting illegal headlights, speakers, and fittings linked to fatal accidents.
Police to Relaunch Islandwide Crackdown on Illegal Vehicle Modifications from July 1
The Sri Lanka Police announced today that it will reintroduce a nationwide operation targeting unauthorized vehicle modifications, beginning July 1. The move aims to curb the increasing number of road safety violations linked to illegal alterations on vehicles.
According to Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Indika Hapugoda, who oversees Traffic Control and Road Safety, the campaign will specifically target high-intensity headlights, unauthorized loudspeakers, metal pole attachments, and other modifications often made without approval from relevant authorities.
“These unauthorized add-ons don’t just break the law—they endanger lives,” DIG Hapugoda warned. “Their presence can exacerbate accidents, especially in low-visibility or high-speed conditions.”
Citing alarming statistics, DIG Hapugoda revealed that 815 pedestrians were killed in road accidents in 2024 alone. Moreover, approximately 800 motorcycle riders and pillion passengers aged 18 to 28 also lost their lives on the road last year. So far this year, the Motor Traffic Department has identified 8,788 vehicles as unsafe for public road use due to severe violations or mechanical unfitness.
The police intend to coordinate closely with the Motor Traffic Department and regional law enforcement to ensure non-compliant vehicles are inspected, modified, or removed from circulation.
Motorists are urged to remove any unauthorized equipment before the enforcement begins in July to avoid fines, license points, or vehicle impoundment.
