Ogun Police Launch Crackdown on Traffic Offences

The Ogun State Police Command has restarted Operation VELVET across all 20 Local Government Areas in the state. This is to step up efforts in enforcing traffic laws, improving road safety, and keeping major highways clear for vehicles.

The operation is led by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu. It aims to address traffic violations that put drivers and other road users at risk, as well as those that create security issues on busy routes.

In a statement on X, the command said the crackdown will focus on one-way driving, reckless driving, unauthorized use of emergency sirens, and vehicles with missing, changed, or covered number plates.

Other violations include driving without a valid license, overloading vehicles, and parking in a way that blocks traffic.

The Commissioner of Police for Ogun State, Bode Ojajuni, instructed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and heads of operational units to ensure the operation is effectively carried out in their areas.

Ojajuni also stated that all officers involved must be well-informed and supervised closely to guarantee that enforcement is done properly while respecting citizens' rights.

He warned police officers not to misuse the operation for misconduct. "Operation VELVET must never serve as a pretext for extortion, illegal detention, harassment, or unauthorized impoundment of vehicles and documents," Ojajuni said.

He added that any officer caught engaging in bribery, intimidation, or other forms of misconduct would face disciplinary actions under police rules. "Any officer caught engaging in bribery, intimidation, or professional misconduct will face immediate disciplinary action under extant Police Regulations," he said.

The command also reminded supervisory officers that they are responsible for the actions of their personnel. They urged motorists, fleet operators, and transport workers to follow traffic rules and work with officers during this enforcement.

The police advised the public against trying to bribe officers to avoid penalties. The Police Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Police Oluseyi Babasuyi, stated that the command is dedicated to carrying out the operation professionally while seeking the support of residents in making roads safer in Ogun State.

The restart of Operation VELVET comes as the police command increases traffic enforcement across the state, especially on major highways and transit routes in the Gateway State.