The Delta State Police Command has reactivated Operation VELVET across the state to strengthen traffic law enforcement, improve road safety and ensure the free flow of vehicular movement.
The operation, launched in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, will target serious traffic offences including reckless and dangerous driving, driving against traffic, excessive speeding, dangerous overtaking, illegal parking, obstruction of traffic and driving without valid licences or relevant documents.
The command will also enforce regulations against unregistered vehicles, vehicles without number plates, fake or concealed number plates, serious overloading and unauthorised use of sirens, among other violations capable of endangering road users.
The Commissioner of Police, Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, has directed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and other operational commanders to ensure effective implementation of the exercise. He ordered that personnel deployed for the operation must conduct enforcement lawfully and with respect for the rights and dignity of members of the public.
The CP, however, warned police personnel against using the operation as a platform for extortion, harassment, intimidation, unlawful seizure of vehicles or documents and other forms of misconduct. He said officers found engaging in corrupt practices would face disciplinary action.
The command also cautioned motorists against offering money or other inducements to evade traffic enforcement, urging all road users to comply with traffic regulations.
The Delta State Police Command assured residents that Operation VELVET would be carried out professionally and transparently, while soliciting the cooperation of motorists and other road users towards safer roads and smoother traffic across the state.
