Olu Samuel

The Kogi state Police command days it has deployed 485 personnel to protect lives and property, maintain law and order as well as prevent criminals from taking advantage of the festive period to disrupt public peace.

This was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Command’s spokesperson, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat and made available to newsmen in Lokoja.

According to her,”the commissioner,Kogi State Command, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, psc, mni, has ordered the proactive deployment of security personnel across the State to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free Eid celebration.”

She said that the deployment involves personnel drawn from Divisions, Area Commands, State Headquarters, Police Mobile Force (PMF), State Intelligence Department (SID), Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU), Vehicle Inspection and Recovery Unit (VCRU), Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, and Safer Highway Patrol Teams.

“As part of efforts to strengthen security architecture during the celebration, the Command is also working in synergy with sister security agencies to ensure coordinated operational activities aimed at guaranteeing the safety of residents and visitors across the State.

The Command has strategically deployed a total of 485 personnel across identified locations within the State. Critical flashpoints have been identified and security measures beefed up accordingly to forestall any threat to public peace and safety.”She noted.

ASP Afusat said that While these deployments have been made, the Commissioner of Police has equally directed all Divisional Police Officers and operational commanders across the State to strengthen security within their respective Areas of Responsibility and intensify confidence-building and crime prevention patrols to ensure there are no security gaps that criminal elements can exploit during the festive period.

“The Commissioner of Police has charged all deployed personnel to remain courteous but firm in the discharge of their duties while ensuring professionalism and strict respect for the fundamental human rights of citizens.

The CP further urges residents of Kogi State to remain security conscious, cooperate with security agencies, and promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest Police formation, while wishing all law-abiding residents and Kogites a peaceful and joyous Eid celebration”. She added.