Police dismiss false flyer on airpods, earphones restrictions

The Ghana Police Service has issued a strong denial of a widely circulated social media flyer that falsely claimed a prohibition on using AirPods, earphones, and similar audio devices while driving or riding. The Service emphasized that the flyer was fabricated and had no authorization from the police.

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The flyer was false and had not been issued or authorised by the Ghana Police Service.

In a statement, the police clarified that the existing road traffic regulation, specifically Regulation 132 of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2519), addresses the use of communication devices. This regulation prohibits drivers from operating a motor vehicle while holding or using a cellular or mobile telephone or any other communication device in one or both hands. A communication device is defined broadly to include devices that transmit and receive information, such as sending messages or accessing the internet.

The police also noted an exception allowing drivers to use devices for emergency calls to the Police, Fire Service, or other emergency services if it is unsafe or impractical to stop. Violators face penalties including fines or imprisonment. The Cybercrime Unit of the Ghana Police Service is actively working to identify and trace the individuals responsible for disseminating the false information.

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a person from driving a motor vehicle on a road or in a public place while holding, using or operating a cellular or mobile telephone or any other communication device in one or both hands.

Despite debunking the specific claim about AirPods, the police reiterated a general caution to all motorists and riders. They stressed that any activity or device that distracts a driver, compromises their hearing, impairs their control of the vehicle, or reduces their awareness of surrounding traffic poses a significant risk to road safety. Drivers are urged to exercise maximum care and avoid distractions, urging full compliance with L.I. 2519 and all other road traffic laws to reduce crashes and protect lives.

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any activity or device that distracted them or compromised their attention, hearing, and control of a vehicle or awareness of surrounding traffic could pose a serious risk to road safety.