The Rivers State Police Command has announced the commencement of a special operation aimed at enforcing traffic regulations, curbing road accidents and improving the free flow of traffic across the state.
The operation, code-named Operation Velvet, is scheduled to commence on August 17, according to the command’s spokesperson, ASP Blessing Agabe.
Agabe, who disclosed this to journalists in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, said the initiative became necessary following the increasing disregard for traffic regulations by motorists and other road users.
She said the situation had contributed to traffic gridlocks, obstruction of vehicular movement and avoidable dangers to motorists, pedestrians and other road users.
According to her, the Commissioner of Police in Rivers, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, has directed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Commanders to ensure effective enforcement of traffic regulations throughout the state.
“Traffic offenders will face appropriate sanctions in accordance with the law, including arrest, impoundment of vehicles and prosecution where necessary,” she said.
Agabe quoted the commissioner as warning police personnel deployed for the operation against extortion, harassment, intimidation, abuse of office and other forms of unprofessional conduct.
Adepoju directed the officers to carry out their responsibilities professionally and within the confines of the law, while respecting the fundamental rights and dignity of members of the public.
“Any officer found guilty of extortion, brutality, misconduct or abuse of office will face strict disciplinary action,” he said.
The commissioner urged motorists, commercial drivers, tricycle operators, motorcyclists and other road users to comply with traffic regulations and cooperate with police personnel during the exercise.
He warned against actions capable of obstructing traffic or putting the lives of motorists, passengers and pedestrians at risk.
Adepoju also called on residents to support the initiative by promptly reporting emergencies and cases of police misconduct or violations of their rights.
“Residents are encouraged to report traffic emergencies, human rights violations, extortion, police misconduct and other incidents requiring urgent intervention,” he added.
The commissioner reaffirmed the command’s commitment to implementing Operation Velvet in accordance with the law, saying the exercise was designed to promote safer roads, ensure free-flowing traffic and strengthen effective policing across Rivers State.
He said the operation would ultimately focus on protecting lives and property while ensuring that the rights and dignity of residents remained respected.
