The Delta State Police Command has reactivated “Operation Velvet” in order to strengthen traffic law enforcement, promote road safety and ensure the free flow of vehicular movement across the state.
The operation, which is in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, will focus on serious traffic violations, including reckless and dangerous driving, driving against traffic (one-way), excessive speeding, dangerous overtaking, obstruction of traffic, illegal parking as well as driving without a valid driver’s licence and other relevant documents.
It will also aim at combating operation of unregistered vehicles or vehicles without number plates, use of fake, altered, defaced or concealed number plates, serious overloading, unauthorised use of sirens, and other violations that endanger road users or impede the free flow of traffic.
This was contained in a statement signed on Sunday by the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Efafe.
The statement noted that the state Commissioner of Police, Yemi Oyeniyi, has consequently directed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and other operational commanders to ensure effective implementation of the operation within their respective jurisdictions.
Edafe quoted the police commissioner as saying personnel deployed for the exercise are to be adequately briefed and supervised, with enforcement conducted firmly, lawfully and with due regard for the fundamental rights and dignity of members of the public.
He said, “The CP further reiterates the directive of the Inspector-General of Police 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 charged to ensure strict accountability of personnel, while any officer found engaging in extortion, corrupt practices or other acts of misconduct will face appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with extant police regulations and procedures.”
The command urged motorists and other road users to ensure compliance with traffic laws and regulations and also cooperate with officers in the lawful discharge of their duties.
“Members of the public are equally cautioned against offering money or other inducements to evade enforcement,” Edafe added.
“The Delta State Police Command assures residents that Operation VELVET will be implemented with professionalism, accountability and respect for the rule of law, and solicits the cooperation of all road users towards safer roads and the free flow of traffic across the state,” he said.
