The Imo State Police Command has reactivated Operation VELVET across the state to strengthen traffic law enforcement, improve road safety and ensure the smooth movement of vehicles.
The exercise follows a directive from the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and is targeted at motorists who violate traffic regulations and engage in practices that could endanger other road users.
The Command said the operation will focus on offences including reckless and dangerous driving, driving against traffic, excessive speeding, dangerous overtaking, traffic obstruction and illegal parking.
Other violations to be addressed include driving without valid licences or required documents, use of unregistered vehicles or vehicles without number plates, fake or altered number plates, serious overloading and unauthorised use of sirens.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Okoye Henry, the Command said Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, had directed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, the State Traffic Officer and other operational commanders to develop and implement appropriate operational plans for the exercise.
The CP also ordered that all officers deployed for the operation be properly briefed and adequately supervised to ensure that enforcement is carried out professionally, lawfully and with respect for the rights and dignity of members of the public.
Bosso warned police personnel against turning the exercise into an opportunity for extortion, harassment, intimidation, abuse of office or other forms of misconduct.
He said officers found demanding money unlawfully, engaging in corrupt practices or violating professional standards would face disciplinary action in line with established police regulations and procedures.
The Command also urged motorists and other road users to obey traffic laws and cooperate with officers during the enforcement exercise.
It cautioned members of the public against offering money or other inducements to avoid lawful enforcement, while encouraging anyone who experiences extortion, harassment or misconduct by police personnel to report such incidents through the appropriate channels.
The Imo Police Command assured residents that Operation VELVET would be conducted with professionalism, accountability and strict adherence to the rule of law.
It said the exercise was part of its broader commitment to improving traffic management, protecting road users and ensuring safer and less congested roads across the state.
