Police relaunch Operation Velvet to enforce road safety, traffic regulations in Benue
Benue State Police Relaunches Operation Velvet to Enforce Traffic Regulations
The Benue State Police Command has announced the relaunch of Operation Velvet, a traffic enforcement initiative aimed at bolstering compliance with traffic laws and disrupting the logistics networks of criminal groups utilizing unregistered vehicles. This decision aligns with directives from Inspector-General of Police, IGP Tunji Disu.
The operation was detailed in a statement released Thursday by the Benue State Police spokesman, DSP Orchia Aondogwu. The initiative seeks to enhance road safety, minimize traffic incidents, and foster responsible use of roadways throughout the state.
Aondogwu highlighted that the operation would focus on ensuring compliance among various road users, including motorists, tricycle operators, and motorcyclists. Key areas of enforcement involve adherence to traffic signals, one-way restrictions, and speed limits, as well as preventing overloading and ensuring possession of valid vehicle documentation, including roadworthiness certifications.
In addition, the police will verify that drivers hold valid licenses, that vehicles are properly registered, and that license plates are visible and correspond to vehicle documents. The use of unauthorized tinted glass and other violations will also be scrutinized in accordance with legal standards.
Commissioner of Police Cletus C. Nwadiogbu has instructed officers to carry out their responsibilities with professionalism and respect for human rights while engaging appropriately with the public. He underscored the necessity of effective traffic management to accompany the enforcement efforts.
Aondogwu emphasized that any incidents of extortion, harassment, or intimidation towards road users would not be tolerated. Officers have been directed to enforce laws firmly while maintaining a professional demeanor. He stated that Operation Velvet’s primary goal is to ensure safer roadways and promote adherence to traffic regulations. Offenders committed to serious traffic or criminal violations will face legal prosecution.
The police urge all motorists and road users to comply with traffic rules and keep their documentation updated. Operation Velvet remains a safety and enforcement initiative, aimed at enhancing road safety across Benue State without subjecting the public to harassment or extortion.
