Police Reactivate Operation Velvet, Intensify Traffic Enforcement in Ogun

The Ogun State Police Command has reactivated Operation VELVET across the state as part of renewed efforts to enforce traffic regulations, improve public safety on major highways and ensure the free flow of vehicles.

The command said the operation followed a directive from the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and would be implemented across all 20 Local Government Areas of Ogun State.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by the State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the exercise would focus on traffic violations capable of endangering road users and creating opportunities for criminal activities along major transit routes.

The police said the operation would target one-way driving, reckless and dangerous driving, unauthorised use of emergency sirens, and vehicles with missing, altered or covered registration plates.

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It will also involve enforcement against unlicensed drivers, vehicle overloading and indiscriminate parking that obstructs traffic.

The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, has consequently directed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and heads of operational units to ensure effective implementation of the directive across their respective commands.

Ojajuni ordered that all personnel deployed for the exercise be properly briefed and closely supervised to ensure they perform their duties professionally and respect the fundamental rights of citizens.

The commissioner, however, warned officers against abusing the operation for personal gain, stressing that it must not become a platform for extortion or harassment of motorists.

The statement quoted Ojajuni as warning that “Operation VELVET must never serve as a pretext for extortion, illegal detention, harassment, or unauthorized impoundment of vehicles and documents.”

He also warned that officers found engaging in bribery, intimidation or other forms of professional misconduct would face disciplinary action.

According to the command, supervisory officers would also be held responsible for the conduct of personnel under their watch.

The police urged motorists, fleet operators and transit workers to comply with traffic regulations and cooperate with officers carrying out the enforcement exercise.

The command also advised members of the public against offering bribes or other inducements to officers in a bid to evade sanctions.

It assured residents that the operation would be conducted with “utmost professionalism” and called for continued public cooperation towards ensuring safer roads across Ogun State.