…begins massive raids on flash points
In a planned action for safety and to nip in the bud serious crimes like Armed robbery, kidnapping, and other related situations, especially within this Easter period and beyond, the security operatives in Anambra have launched Operation Udo Ga Achi Zero Kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state.
The event which took place on monday, 14th April at the Amawbia flyover had the attendance in the State Security Operation comprising the Police, the Army from 302 Artillery Regiment (GS), the Navy from the Naval Outpost, Department of State Service, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Services (NIS), Nigerian Correctional Service, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Anambra State Vigilante and the media.
Speaking at the event, Anambra state Police Commissioner, CP Ikioye Orutugu said 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.
According to CP, the Security Forces are now more motivated, as the operation will give them a more coordinated approach to reclaiming the public space. It will also serve as a daily brief to always restrategize as the operation unfolds.
He noted that various Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) as well as other Security Formations/Security agencies have been directed to conduct massive raids on identified criminal flashpoints and hot spots within their Areas of Responsibility (AOR). “This strategic move is aimed at dislodging criminal elements. It will also assist the security agencies to stay ahead of criminal threats and reinforce public confidence as well as ensuring the continued safety and security of all residents”.
“Operation Udo ga chi Zero Kidnapping and other violent crimes in the State is intelligence-driven with Stop-and-Search operations, Joint Security targeted patrols and the Operatives posted to identify locations with Amorured Personnel Carriers on alert to respond to any untoward situations”.
“While we seek the cooperation of Ndi Anambra and its residents, we also wish to state that the Operatives have been fully briefed to be civil to members of the public.
“We want to thank the State Government and good-spirited Ndi Anambra for their goodwill in fixing some of our Operational vehicles and Armoured Personnel Carriers. Together, we can make Anambra State a safer and livable homeland for everyone”.
Earlier in a goodwill message, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Soludo on Security and Anti-Cultism, Hon. Kingsley Ezika, lauded the Police and other security agencies for their commitment to protecting lives and property. He emphasized the importance of unity, both within security agencies and among the populace, in achieving long-term safety.
Hon. Ezika, while reiterating the government’s support, called for full implementation of the anti-cultism law, especially the provision prohibiting illegal gatherings. He also appealed to Ndi Anambra in the diaspora to periodically return home, not just to enjoy the serenity, but to also motivate, celebrate, and engage with security operatives in the state and understand how they can support the system.
“These men and women left their own states to stake their lives here in Anambra for the sake of humanity. Let’s give them the maximum support they deserve,” he said.
On his part, the President of Anambra Restaurant and Bar Owners Association (ARBOA), Hon. Tokas Ohazulike, commended the security chiefs for their proactive measures. He revealed that criminals often converge at restaurants and bars to plan their activities and therefore suggested the establishment of a dedicated emergency number for hospitality operators to report such suspicious gatherings.
He further appealed to the state government to provide more operational vehicles for security operatives, adding that this kind of initiative and support should not be limited to festive periods but be sustained.
Similarly, the President of the Ultimate Business Women and Farmers Association of Nigeria (UBWFAN), Mrs. Nkiruka Nwagbo, pledged the association’s support—both spiritual and otherwise —to the new operation. She raised concerns about the vulnerability of women, especially farmers who are often raped by criminal herdsmen during the farming season, and expressed optimism that the new operation will help in great ways to limit such threats as farming season approaches.
Also speaking, the President of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) in Anambra State, Surveyor Okonkwo Okechukwu Cosmas, praised the initiative and Governor Soludo’s commitment to security. He, however, appealed for more technological enhancements such as the installation of CCTV cameras across the state, geographical crime mapping, and the establishment of a state security control room.
Among others, the official launch of the operation by CP Orutugu, followed by tactical display and drills by operatives from the various security agencies, showcasing readiness, synergy, and strength, formed the high points of the event.
Also present were the Untied Women Farmers Association that emphasied on the need to provide more Security measures especially in the communities as farming season approaches.
