- As security agencies launch operation zero kidnapping and other violent crimes
From Aloysius Attah and Emmanuel Uzor, Awka
The Police in Anambra state has given the assurance of adequate security and preparedness of the command in Anambra to protect the citizens as Easter celebration gets underway.
Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, Ikioye Orutugu who gave the assurance on Monday in Awka during the launch of special operation code-named, “Operation Udo ga Achi Zero Kidnapping and Other Violent Crimes” appealed to the indigenes of the State to feel free to come home en-masse for the Easter celebration.
Orutugu said security agencies have put water-tight security arrangements in place for a crime-free celebration.
According to him, the special is to dislodge criminal elements and assist security agencies to stay ahead of criminal threats. He said the initiative was also to reinforce public confidence and ensure continued safety and security of all residents.
He said, “This is a proactive template to effectively police the state by encouraging Ndị Anambra to come home en-masse for this festive period.
The Police Commissioner noted that the responsibility of securing the state is a collective one.
“No one can take the glory alone in the efforts of sustaining safety and security in the State.
“Therefore, this operation comprises the Police, the Army from 302 Artillery Regiment (GS), the Navy from the Naval Outpost.
“Also involved are Department of State Service, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and Nigeria Immigration Services (NIS).
“Others are Nigerian Correctional Service, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Anambra State Vigilante and most importantly Ndi Anambra and its teeming populace,” he said.
“All have resolved to work with the security agencies in sharing information that may lead to the arrest and prosecution of kidnappers and other criminals.
“The Security forces are now more motivated, as the operation will give them a more coordinated approach. This will help to reclaim the public space and serve as a daily brief to always re-strategize as the operation unfolds.
“Various Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) and other security formations have been directed to conduct massive raids. The raids will cover identified criminal flashpoints and hot spots within their Areas of Responsibility (AOR).
Orutugu said this strategic move is to ensure that security agencies stay ahead of criminal threats.
“Again, it will ensure continued safety and security of all residents.
While seeking cooperation of residents of the state, CP assured them that the operatives will be civil to the public.
“We want to thank the government and good-spirited Ndi Anambra for their goodwill in fixing some of our operational vehicles and armoured personnel carriers.
“The Police as the lead agency in internal security have emplaced an Operation code-named Operation Udo ga chi Zero Kidnapping and Other Violent Crimes in the State, a proactive template to assuage the fear of the unknown to effectively police the State by encouraging the great people of Anambra State to come home en-masse for this festive period. Together, we can make Anambra State a safer and livable homeland for everyone,” he added.