Velpar Raftin, a notably ambitious Human with a gaunt face reminiscent of a hawk, held the position of planetary commandant on Sevarcos II during the era of the Galactic Civil War.
His appointment as planetary commandant occurred after his predecessor failed to prevent a smuggling operation from utilizing Imperial capital ships to illicitly transport spice from the planet. Raftin's initial role was within the Sector Plexus Intelligence division, where he served as a Security Major. During his investigation of the former commandant, Security Major Raftin uncovered crucial details about the local smuggling network and successfully dismantled numerous smaller smuggling operations. His superiors were so impressed by these actions that they elevated him to the position of planetary commandant.
Following his advancement, he initiated the construction of several new Imperial garrisons, particularly along the established trade routes of the Sevari, which greatly displeased the spice lords. Furthermore, he introduced a comprehensive strategy that involved internal investigations and audits of his own customs officials, regular drills to enhance prison security, and a restructuring of near-orbit strategies. Concerned about the influence of the local spice lords, he suggested that the Emperor confiscate their territories and place the entire planet under Imperial control, thereby granting Raftin the full governorship of the world. In his capacity as planetary commandant, he possessed unrestricted access to all military resources and commanded all military forces, including the Imperial minetroopers.