Nigerian police reactivate Operation VELVET for traffic enforcement

Police commands in Delta and Imo states have reactivated Operation VELVET following directives from the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu. The initiative aims to strengthen traffic law enforcement, improve road safety, and ensure the free flow of vehicular movement.

The operation targets various traffic violations, including reckless driving, speeding, driving against traffic, illegal parking, and the use of unregistered vehicles or fraudulent number plates. Other focus areas include unauthorized siren use and serious overloading.

Commanders in both states have emphasized that officers must conduct themselves professionally and respect the rights of the public. Police leadership has issued strict warnings against using the operation as a tool for extortion, harassment, intimidation, or unlawful seizure of property, stating that any personnel engaging in misconduct will face disciplinary action.