Ahead of the planned nationwide protest, the Imo State Police Command has in collaboration with other sister agencies deployed security at strategic points to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
In a press statement, the Police Public Relations Officer ACP, Henry Okoye informed that Security Operatives drawn from the Police, Armed Forces, and other security agencies have been strategically deployed and tasked to carry out a 15-day show of force and confidence-building patrol across the 27 LGAs of the State to ensure public safety and deter miscreants from causing any break down of law and order.
ACP, further informed that the Detectives of the State Intelligence Department have also been deployed on covert intelligence gathering to monitor the situation surrounding the planned mass demonstration.
“The massive deployment of security operatives is not meant to intimidate the civil populace but to reassure them that the security agencies in the state are working harmoniously to ensure public safety and as well strengthen public confidence in going about their lawful businesses without any fear or intimidation”the release stated.
The press statement said the Commissioner of Police CP Aboki Danjuma while addressing the operatives before the confidence-building alongside the Commander 34 Artillery Brigade Obinze, tasked the operatives to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, respect the rule of law and fundamental human rights of citizens while ensuring public safety.
The Police Commissioner acknowledged that citizens have the right to embark on peaceful protest in any democratic society but warned that violent protest is criminal and capable of leading to the destruction of lives and properties.
He, however, assured that the Command has deployed stringent security measures to prevent any form of civil unrest.
In line with the direction, he has reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering commitment to protecting the rights of citizens while ensuring their maximum safety and urged residents to be security conscious and swiftly report any suspicious person seen or activity observed within their vicinity to the nearest Police Station
