By Stevenie Ojijiagwo
The Imo State Police Command has reactivated Operation VELVET across the state as part of renewed efforts to strengthen traffic law enforcement, improve road safety and ensure the free flow of vehicular movement.
The exercise follows a directive from the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), and is expected to target motorists who violate existing traffic laws and regulations.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Okoye Henry, ANIPR, the operation will focus on serious traffic offences including reckless and dangerous driving, driving against traffic, excessive speeding, dangerous overtaking, obstruction of traffic and illegal parking.
Other violations targeted under the operation include driving without valid licences or required documents, use of unregistered vehicles or vehicles without number plates, possession or use of fake, altered or concealed number plates, serious overloading and unauthorised use of sirens.
The Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Audu Garba Bosso, PSC(+), mnips, has directed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, the State Traffic Officer and other operational commanders to prepare and implement appropriate Operation Orders for the exercise.
CP Bosso also directed that all personnel deployed for the operation must 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.
CP Warns Against Extortion, Harassment
The Commissioner of Police has specifically warned officers and personnel involved in Operation VELVET against turning the exercise into an avenue for extortion, harassment, intimidation, abuse of office or other forms of professional misconduct.
He warned that any police personnel found engaging in extortion, unlawful demands, corrupt practices or other misconduct would face appropriate disciplinary action in line with existing Police Regulations and procedures.
The Command also cautioned motorists and other road users against offering money or other inducements to police personnel in an attempt to evade lawful enforcement.
Members of the public have been encouraged to report incidents of extortion, harassment or misconduct by police personnel through appropriate channels.
The Imo State Police Command assured residents and road users that Operation VELVET would be conducted with professionalism, accountability and strict adherence to the rule of law.
The Command further solicited the cooperation of motorists and other road users, stressing that the exercise is aimed at promoting safer roads, effective traffic management and the free flow of traffic across Imo State.
Source: Imo State Police Command Press Release
Date: August 13, 2026
