By Patrick Obia
The Cross River State Command of the Nigerian Police force has assured Cross Riverians and commuters of a robust and secure festive period.
The Commissioner of Police in the State, CP Sule Balarabe gave the assurance in a press release signed by the Police Public Relations Office, ASP Irene Ugbo said the Command has mapped out security measures to ensure a hitch-free Charismas and New Year celebration in the state.
The CP charged Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical Commanders to step up policing holistically across the length and breadth of the State as the Command has carried out massive deployment of personnel and tools in critical infrastructure recreational centers and directed aggressive vehicular and foot patrols before, during and after the festive season.
Sule warned that the command is resolute and will not renege in dealing decisively with hoodlums, political thugs, and all forms of illegal or unapproved processions to breach the peace enjoyed across the State by invoking the extant laws of the State and federal laws accordingly.
The release reads: “The Cross River State Police Command has map cut security measures to ensure a hitch-free Christmas and New Year celebration in the State.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Sule Balarabe, FIPSS has charged Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical Commanders to step up policing holistically across the length and breadth of the State. In achieving this task, the command has carried out a massive deployment of personnel and tools in critical infrastructure recreational centers and directed aggressive vehicular/foot patrols before, during, and after the festive season.
“Consequently, the CP has warned all potential dealers and users of fireworks (bangers) to desist from an illegitimate business venture. He also cautions parents/guardians to prevail on their children or wards from patronizing dealers of all kinds of fireworks with regard to the current security situation nationwide.
“Furthermore, the command is resolute and will not renege in dealing decisively with hoodlums, political thugs, and all forms of illegal or unapproved processions with a view to breach the peace we enjoy across the State by invoking the extant laws of the State and federal laws accordingly.
“While extending his warm greetings to all Christmas faithful on the occasion of Christmas, Calabar Carnival activities, and New Year celebrations. To this end, the CP enjoined residents, Community/Youth leaders, traditional institutions, and the clergies to cooperate with Police Operatives and other security agencies through actionable intelligence, prompt reportage of any suspicious movement (s) with the following helpline: 08133568456 in case of any emergency. Merry Christmas and a prosperous new year.”