A’ Ibom Police command bans shields in Keke NAPEP; fire works in Yuletide

Sequel to the escalation of criminal activities in the metropolis and some hinterlands of the state, the Police command in the state has increased the presence of security, especially at public arenas.

This warning was contained in a statement signed by the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Odiko MacDon and made available to newsmen in Uyo yesterday.

According to the statement, the state Police Commissioner, Mr Amienghene Andrew, has banned the use of shields in Keke Napep and fireworks during the yuletide.

“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command is inundated with reports of some criminal elements involved in car snatching, robberies and other heinous crimes within Uyo metropolis and some other parts of the state, leaving the people dispossessed and in trepidation, a trend that is totally unacceptable.

“CP Akwa Ibom deploys additional Police Officers to dominate public space. The Police and other Security agencies cannot fold their hands and watch hoodlums have a field day without taking steps to maintain law and order.

“Hence, the Commissioner of Police, CP Amiengheme Andrew, fdc has deployed additional Personnel for the Joint Task Force, initiated by His Excellency, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Deacon Udom Emmanuel to provide watertight security within Uyo metropolis and other parts of the State to stem the tide of criminal activities and restore normalcy.

“To further strengthen emplaced strategies, the Command CP has ordered a ban on the use of the black leather shield used by the sides of Keke NAPEP, intended to prevent water during rain. It  is now being used by unscrupulous elements to conceal victims of robbery, abduction, one chance and other heinous crimes.

“The CP further notes that henceforth, all riders of Keke NAPEP are *to put on their inner lights from 7pm to enable security operatives and members of the public see those inside the Keke.

“As celebrations during the yuletide gathers momentum   for a hitch-free celebration, the CP has further ban the use of fireworks and knockouts around the State”

The statement further added that, the CP has made available the following hotlines 08039213071 08081388797 08020913810, for rapid response, in case of any security bridge.

“However, for the avoidance of doubt, the Commissioner of Police has issued clear directives and taken drastic steps on the current turn of events. It will therefore be in the interest of those perpetrating these crimes to desist forthwith or quickly leave the State or be willing to bear the imminent waterloo that awaits them.

“Finally, the Command is craving the indulgence of all Akwa Ibomites to avail the Police and other security agencies with credible information at all times to make the state crime free”.