By Sunday Apah
The Delta State Police Command has relaunched Operation VELVET statewide in accordance with instructions from Inspector-General of Police IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu.
The move forms part of renewed measures to tighten traffic law compliance, improve road safety, and keep vehicles moving freely throughout the state.
In a statement released on Sunday, 16 August 2026, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, explained that the operation will target serious traffic offences.
These include reckless and dangerous driving, driving against the flow of traffic, excessive speeding, risky overtaking, obstructing traffic, illegal parking, driving without a valid licence or other required documents, operating unregistered vehicles or those without number plates, using fake, altered, defaced or hidden number plates, serious overloading, unauthorised use of sirens, and any other breaches that endanger road users or hinder free movement.
Commissioner of Police Delta State Command, Yemi Oyeniyi, has instructed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and other operational heads to implement the operation effectively in their areas of responsibility.
Officers assigned to the exercise must be properly briefed and supervised. Enforcement is to be carried out firmly and lawfully, with full respect for the fundamental rights and dignity of members of the public.
The Commissioner also restated the Inspector-General’s clear directive that Operation VELVET must not become a tool for extortion, harassment, intimidation, unlawful seizure of vehicles or documents, abuse of office, or any other professional misconduct.
Supervising officers have been tasked with ensuring strict accountability. Any officer found engaging in extortion, corruption or other improper conduct will face appropriate disciplinary measures under existing Police Regulations and procedures.
The Command therefore appeals to motorists and other road users to obey traffic laws and regulations and to cooperate with officers performing their lawful duties.
Members of the public are equally advised not to offer money or other inducements in an attempt to avoid enforcement.
The Delta State Police Command assures residents that Operation VELVET will be conducted with professionalism, accountability and respect for the rule of law, and seeks the full cooperation of all road users in achieving safer roads and smoother traffic flow across the state.
