The police command in Jigawa has commenced a special operation, codenamed ‘Operation Velvet’, to enforce road traffic laws. The command’s spokesperson, Lawan Shiisu, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.

Mr Shiisu said the operation aimed to clamp down on motorists and other road users violating existing traffic laws and regulations.

He said the exercise, which commenced on Monday, was designed to promote compliance with traffic laws, enhance road safety, reduce traffic-related offences and accidents, and protect road users.

According to him, during the initial phase of the operation in Dutse council area, 17 vehicles were intercepted for various traffic offences.

He listed the offences as including covered number plates, unauthorised use of tinted glass, and overloading.

Mr Shiisu said the enforcement team apprehended the affected motorists and subsequently charged them before the appropriate court for prosecution.

“The command wishes to emphasise that Operation Velvet is not intended to inconvenience law-abiding motorists.

“Rather, it is aimed at ensuring responsible driving, compliance with established traffic regulations and the protection of lives and property on the roads.

“The operation will subsequently be extended to all major towns and cities across the state, and motorists found violating road traffic laws will be arrested and made to face the full consequences of the law,” he said.

The police commissioner, Tijjani Murtala, called on motorists, commercial drivers, tricycle and motorcycle operators and other road users to comply strictly with traffic laws.

Mr Murtala urged them to avoid reckless driving and other dangerous practices and cooperate with security and traffic enforcement personnel during the operation.

He also appealed to residents to support the initiative by obeying traffic regulations and providing useful information on persistent violations that could endanger lives and property.

“The command remains committed to professional policing, public safety, prevention of road traffic offences and the protection of lives and property across the state,” Mr Murtala stated.

(NAN)