Sokoto Police reactivate ‘Operation Velvet’ to enforce traffic rules

From Bashir Rabe Mani, Sokoto

The Sokoto State Police Command has announced the reactivation of Operation Velvet, a specialized enforcement drive aimed at restoring order, enhancing public safety, and ensuring strict compliance with traffic regulations across the state.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Command Spokesperson DSP Ahmed Rufai confirmed that operations will officially commence on Thursday.
The command highlighted several traffic violations that will face strict enforcement and penalties
“ All vehicles equipped with tinted glass must carry valid, authorized permits.
“Driving against oncoming traffic—identified as a primary cause of major road accidents and severe gridlocks—will face decisive sanctions.
“Unregistered automobiles will be impounded immediately, while drivers utilizing counterfeit, forged, or unauthorized number plates face vehicle confiscation and prosecution.
“Vehicles with covered, bent, tinted, or illegible license plates will be penalized.
“Operatives will also target reckless driving, overloading, running traffic signals, and driving without a valid license,” the statement said.
Sokoto State Commissioner of Police, Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, assured residents that deployed officers have been instructed to conduct the exercise with civility and strict respect for fundamental human rights.
“Acts of extortion, harassment, intimidation, or any form of misconduct by personnel will not be tolerated and will be met with severe disciplinary action, including prosecution where warranted,” CP Shaffa warned.
Motorists across Sokoto State are advised to ensure full compliance with vehicle documentation, clear any obstructions from license plates, and strictly adhere to traffic laws ahead of Thursday’s commencement.
Furthermore, the command encouraged members of the public to report any officer misconduct or rights violations to its Complaint Response Unit via 08032861946 or 09033002739.