The Delta State Police Command has reactivated Operation VELVET across the state as part of renewed efforts to enforce traffic laws, improve road safety and ensure free movement of vehicles.
The reactivation followed a directive by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, directing intensified traffic law enforcement nationwide.
The police disclose this In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Delta State Command, SP Bright Edafe, in Asaba on Sunday.
The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, psc, acipm, mnips, directed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and other operational commanders across the state to ensure effective implementation of the operation within their respective jurisdictions.
Operation VELVET will target serious traffic violations capable of endangering motorists, pedestrians and other road users, as well as offences that obstruct the smooth flow of traffic.
Among the violations to be targeted are reckless and dangerous driving, driving against traffic, otherwise known as one-way driving, excessive speeding and dangerous overtaking.
The operation will also address obstruction of traffic, illegal parking, driving without a valid driver’s licence and other required documents, as well as the use of unregistered vehicles or vehicles without number plates.
The police said motorists using fake, altered, defaced or concealed number plates would also be targeted, alongside serious overloading, unauthorised use of sirens and other violations capable of putting road users at risk.
CP Oyeniyi ordered that all personnel deployed for the exercise must be properly briefed and closely supervised to ensure that enforcement is carried out firmly, professionally and within the law.
The Commissioner also stressed that members of the public must be treated with respect and dignity during the exercise, warning officers against turning the traffic operation into an avenue for abuse of power.
The CP specifically reiterated the IGP’s directive that Operation VELVET must not be used for extortion, harassment, intimidation, unlawful seizure of vehicles or documents, abuse of office or any other form of professional misconduct.
According to the Command, supervising officers have been directed to ensure strict accountability among personnel deployed for the operation.
The police further warned that any officer found engaging in extortion, corrupt practices or other forms of misconduct would face appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with extant Police Regulations and procedures.
The Command also cautioned motorists and other road users against attempting to evade lawful enforcement by offering money or other inducements to police officers.
It urged motorists to ensure that their vehicles and relevant documents are in order and to comply with traffic laws and regulations.
The police said the cooperation of motorists and other road users remained essential to achieving safer roads, reducing traffic-related risks and ensuring the free flow of vehicles across Delta State.
The Command assured residents that Operation VELVET would be implemented with professionalism, accountability and respect for the rule of law.
The police appealed to members of the public to support the exercise and cooperate with officers carrying out their duties lawfully.