By our Reporter
The Ogun State Police Command has reactivated Operation VELVET across the state’s 20 local government areas as part of renewed efforts to enforce traffic regulations, enhance public safety and ensure free movement of vehicles on major highways.
The operation follows a directive from the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and is designed to address traffic violations that could endanger road users and create opportunities for criminal activities along major transit corridors.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the operation will focus on offences including one-way driving, reckless and dangerous driving, the unauthorised use of emergency sirens and the use of missing, altered or covered vehicle registration plates.
The police will also target unlicensed drivers, vehicle overloading and indiscriminate parking that obstructs traffic flow across the state.
The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, has directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and heads of operational units to ensure effective implementation of the exercise across their respective jurisdictions.
Ojajuni ordered that all personnel deployed for the operation be properly briefed and closely supervised to ensure that their duties are performed firmly, professionally and with respect for the fundamental rights of citizens.
The Commissioner warned officers that Operation VELVET must not be used as a cover for extortion, illegal detention, harassment or unauthorised impoundment of vehicles and documents.
He said supervisory officers would be held responsible for the conduct of their subordinates, while any officer found engaging in bribery, intimidation or other forms of professional misconduct would face disciplinary action in accordance with existing Police Regulations.
The Command also urged motorists, fleet operators and transport workers across the state to comply with traffic regulations and cooperate with police personnel deployed for the operation.
Members of the public were further advised not to offer bribes or other inducements to police officers or other officials in an attempt to evade sanctions.
The Ogun State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to conducting Operation VELVET with professionalism and called for the cooperation of residents in its efforts to promote safer roads and improve public safety across the state.
