Rita Enemuru, Reporting
ASABA — The Delta State Police Command has reactivated Operation VELVET in a sweeping crackdown on traffic violations, with the state’s top police officer warning officers against using the initiative as a cover for extortion.
The operation, which was first launched earlier this year, has been revived following a direct order from the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, as part of a renewed push to improve road safety and ease congestion across the state.
Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, has directed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and other operational commanders to ensure the enforcement is carried out “firmly, lawfully and with due regard for the fundamental rights and dignity of members of the public”.
The operation will target a raft of serious traffic offences, including:
· Reckless and dangerous driving
· Driving against traffic (one-way)
· Excessive speeding and dangerous overtaking
· Obstruction of traffic and illegal parking
· Driving without a valid driver’s licence
· Operating unregistered vehicles or vehicles without number plates
· Use of fake, altered, defaced or concealed number plates
· Serious overloading
· Unauthorised use of sirens
Zero Tolerance For Misconduct
In a statement released yesterday by the command’s Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the Commissioner stressed that Operation VELVET “must not be used as an avenue for extortion, harassment, intimidation, unlawful seizure of vehicles or documents, abuse of office or any other form of professional misconduct”.
Supervising officers have been tasked with ensuring strict accountability of personnel deployed for the exercise.
The CP warned that any officer found engaging in corrupt practices or other acts of misconduct will face “appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with extant Police Regulations and procedures”.
Public Urged To Cooperate
The command has appealed to motorists and other road users to ensure compliance with traffic laws and to cooperate with officers in the lawful discharge of their duties.
Members of the public have also been cautioned against offering money or other inducements to evade enforcement.
The Delta State Police Command assured residents that Operation VELVET would be implemented with “professionalism, accountability and respect for the rule of law”, and solicited the cooperation of all road users towards safer roads and the free flow of traffic across the state.
The operation comes amid growing concerns over road safety in the state, with authorities determined to curb the rising incidence of traffic-related incidents caused by reckless driving and flagrant disregard for road regulations.
Motorists are advised to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and all necessary documentation is in order as enforcement teams begin patrols across the state.
