As the Yuletide season draws near, the Rivers State Police Command has warned residents and travelers to avoid nighttime journeys on the Elele-Omerelu and Isiokpo-Elele Roads in Ikwerre Local Government Area due to escalating cases of kidnappings and criminal activity.

State Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Mustapha, issued this advisory during a press briefing in Port Harcourt on Wednesday. He assured the public of enhanced security along these routes, emphasizing the deployment of security forces from the Airport Roundabout Omagwa to Isiokpo, Elele, and adjoining areas.

“We have fortified these areas by deploying comprehensive security measures. By the grace of God, these roads are now safer,” Mustapha stated.

He further urged road users to restrict movements during late hours, especially past midnight, describing such travel as highly risky. “Our goal is to ensure safety throughout the holiday season and beyond,” he added.

### Collaborating with Local Vigilantes

To tackle the resurgence of crime, the police have engaged with local vigilante groups. Discussions revealed that some former members of the Onelga Security Peace Advisory Committee (OSPAC) are allegedly involved in the criminal activities.

“These individuals, once part of OSPAC, exploit lapses in security to perpetrate crime. OSPAC leaders have pledged to help identify and apprehend these bad elements,” Mustapha noted.

### Persistent Security Concerns

Despite past efforts, such as the introduction of police checkpoints in 2016 to address kidnapping incidents, criminal activity has re-emerged along these roads.

Recently, a video surfaced showing kidnap victims recounting their ordeal. They described being taken to a farmland filled with corpses and claimed many travelers remain in captivity along these routes.

The Rivers State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to eradicating crime and ensuring safe passage for all road users during the festive period.