The Abia State Police Command says it has deployed personnel throughout the state to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents within this Yuletide.
A release endorsed by the command’s Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Maureen Chinaka names the operational strategy to include: the sectorizing of Abia State which encompasses a visible police presence on major roads, various places of worship and event centres.
According to the release, there will be raids on recognized high-risk areas, unfinished structures, stop-and-search operations, vehicular/foot patrols, and collaborative efforts among sister security agencies in the state.
It points out that this concerted effort aims at ensuring a smooth and secure festive period for the inhabitants of Abia State before, during, and after the Christmas celebration.
The release emphatically restates the ban on the sale or use of fireworks (knockouts) in the State, citing potential threats to public peace and security, adding such fireworks have the capacity to cause distractions and create opportunities for criminal activities, including fire incidents, particularly during the harmattan season.
It therefore calls on parents and guardians to warn their children/wards against the sale or use of firecrackers (knockouts) for the overall safety of the community.
While wishing the Christian faithful in the State wonderful celebrations and reiterating its commitment to ensuring the safety of all residents, the Command encouraged to remain vigilant and utilize the police emergency lines for distress calls and complaints.
The numbers are 08035415405, 08079210004, 08079210005 and 08079210006
