The Delta State Police Command has reactivated Operation VELVET across the state as part of efforts to strengthen traffic law enforcement, improve road safety and ensure the smooth movement of vehicles.
The command said in a statement by its Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, that the renewed operation followed a directive by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and would focus on traffic offences capable of endangering motorists, commuters and other road users.
Among the violations targeted under the operation are reckless and dangerous driving, driving against traffic, excessive speeding, dangerous overtaking, traffic obstruction, illegal parking and driving without valid licences or required vehicle documents.
The operation will also address the use of unregistered vehicles or vehicles without number plates, fake or altered number plates, serious overloading, unauthorised use of sirens and other practices capable of disrupting traffic or putting road users at risk, the statement read.
The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, Yemi Oyeniyi, has thereby directed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and other operational commanders to ensure strict and effective implementation of the exercise in their respective areas.
CP Oyeniyi ordered that personnel deployed for the operation must be properly briefed and closely supervised, stressing that enforcement must be carried out professionally, lawfully and with respect for the rights and dignity of members of the public.
The Commissioner, however, issued a strong warning to police personnel against using the operation to extort or harass motorists.
He reiterated the IGP’s directive that Operation VELVET must not become a platform for extortion, intimidation, unlawful seizure of vehicles or documents, abuse of office or any other form of misconduct.
According to him, officers found engaging in extortion, corrupt practices or other acts of professional misconduct will face appropriate disciplinary measures in accordance with Police Regulations and established procedures.
The Commissioner of Police also urged supervising officers to maintain strict accountability among personnel deployed for the exercise and ensure that the operation achieves its objectives without compromising public confidence in the police.
The command called on motorists and other road users to obey traffic regulations and cooperate with police officers carrying out legitimate enforcement duties.
It equally warned members of the public against offering money or other inducements to officers in an attempt to evade enforcement, stressing that such acts would undermine the objective of the operation.
The Delta State Police Command assured residents that Operation VELVET would be conducted with professionalism, accountability and respect for the rule of law, while appealing for the cooperation of motorists and other road users in creating safer roads and ensuring the free flow of traffic across the state.
