By Michael Ofulue
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No fewer than three thousand policemen were deployed to various flash points accross the state to ensure that citizens, especially Muslim faithful go about to celebrate this year’s Eld-El-Kabir without any fear of molestation, embarrassment or intimidation.

To this end, all the Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers  (DPO) across the 18 local governments have been directed  by the State Police Commissioner, Mr Olugbenga Adeyanju to be vigilant and ensure proper monitoring of their men posted to various flash points and identified crime prone  areas so as to prevent hoodlums from taking advantage of the celebration to carry out their nefarious activities in the state.

The State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Femi Joseph who spoke with The Hope in an interview about the command’s preparation to ensure peace before, during and after the Salah celebrations said the police boss on behalf of  the state police command  felicitates with Muslim faithful wishing them a crime free celebration as they go about to celebrate with their families, friends and associates in the state.

Joseph who said adequate security measures have been mapped out in the state said policemen have  been placed on red alert and that some police are on standby at command headquarters  in case there is need for mobilisation while some have been deployed to keep their eagle eyes on places of worship such as mosques, praying grounds, recreational centres, markets and others places where people may converged for the Salah celebration.

The police spokesman who said adequate men and logistics are on ground to forestall any possible break down of law and order in the state enjoined law abiding citizens to go about their lawful and legitimate duties unmolested just as he urged them to report any strange face found in their respective domains to the nearest police station for onward action.

Joseph while warning those with criminal intent to have a rethink or be ready to face the full weight of the law as the command will continue to do its best in sustaining the existing peace being enjoyed at the moment.

“As I speak to you today, 3,000 police personnel are already on ground and they have been directed on what to do. My CP has also given a directive to Area commanders in the 8 area commands in the state. The DPOS have equally been instructed to be vigilant and more proactive and ensure that they properly monitor their various divisions and jurisdictions to ensure that there is no security lapses throughout the period of this celebration.

“As for our Muslim brothers and sisters, the command wish them happy and crime free celebration  assuring them of adequate protection of their lives and property during and after the celebration,” he stated.

The PPRO however appealed to the general public to always assist the police with useful information that would help them to tackle crime related issues happening in the state saying the Job of effective crime prevention, detection and control is for all and sundry.