Filmmaker Rohit Shetty, renowned for his high-octane "Cop Universe" films, has found himself in real-world legal scrutiny. Local authorities are investigating the director for allegedly equipping his private vehicles with "Police" stickers and emergency flashing lights, a direct violation of the Motor Vehicles Act. The controversy comes as Shetty continues production on Golmaal 5 under heightened personal security. Rohit Shetty House Firing Case: All 6 Accused Arrested From Rajasthan Sent to Police Remand Till February 25.

Rohit Shetty’s Alleged Violations of the Motor Vehicles Act

According to a report by Mid-Day, Shetty is under investigation for modifying at least two of his personal sports utility vehicles (SUVs) to resemble official law enforcement transport. These modifications reportedly include prominent "Police" decals and the installation of police-style flashing lights.

Under Section 177 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 (as amended in 2019), the use of such insignia on private vehicles is strictly prohibited. Traffic authorities confirmed that the SUVs in question are registered in Shetty’s name rather than to any government department. A senior traffic officer told Mid-Day, "Writing 'POLICE' on private vehicles or using police lights is illegal. Only official police vehicles are permitted."

January 2026 Firing Incident at Shetty Towers and Extortion Threats

The current legal investigation follows a period of significant personal risk for the filmmaker. On January 31, 2026, unidentified gunmen opened fire outside Shetty’s residence in Juhu. At least five rounds were discharged at the nine-story building, with one bullet reportedly shattering the glass of a gymnasium located on the first floor.

Responsibility for the attack was claimed by members of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang via a social media post. The group described the shooting as a "trailer" and warned the director against interfering in their activities. Police investigations suggest the firing was part of a broader extortion racket targeting high-profile figures in the film industry to "instil fear and supremacy."

Legal Implications

Regional Transport Office (RTO) officials have emphasised that there are no exceptions for private citizens, regardless of their public standing or security status. An RTO inspector noted that when such violations are identified, the local police are alerted for further action. ‘Koi Franchise Nahi Chhodta Hai Ye’: Ajay Devgn Jokes as Akshay Kumar Joins 'Golmaal 5', Shoot Begins Under Rohit Shetty.

RTI activist Anil Galgali, who has frequently flagged the misuse of sirens and insignia, told Mid-Day that such actions are a "matter of grave public concern" because they create a false impression of official authority.

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TruLY Score 3 – Believable; Needs Further Research | On a Trust Scale of 0-5 this article has scored 3 on LatestLY, this article appears believable but may need additional verification. It is based on reporting from news websites or verified journalists (Mid-Day), but lacks supporting official confirmation. Readers are advised to treat the information as credible but continue to follow up for updates or confirmations

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 01, 2026 02:57 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).