From Owen Akenzua, Asaba
Delta State has recorded notable improvement in security, with kidnapping cases dropping in recent months.
This was disclosed yesterday by the Commander of 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier-General Abdulmoshood Shonibare.
Addressing journalists after the state security council meeting chaired by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in Asaba, Shonibare said the session reviewed the state’s security situation since the last ad-hoc meeting and discovered that enhanced coordination among security agencies, traditional rulers and local government authorities had yielded positive results.
“Delta State is calmer than it was a few months ago and we can all attest to this. Cases of kidnapping have dramatically reduced and cultists no longer have a foothold here,” Shonibare said.
He cited a recent rescue operation in which two female students and a male student, kidnapped in separate incidents, were rescued unhurt.
The operation, conducted with the Nigerian Police Special Anti-Kidnapping Squad, led to the killing of two suspected kidnappers and the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, magazines and 16 rounds of ammunition.
Shonibare also disclosed that security forces have been intercepting fleeing criminal elements, including members of the proscribed IPOB group, who were attempting to hide in Asaba, Warri and surrounding areas.
“Those who think Delta State is a safe haven should think twice. We are coming after them,” he warned.
On grassroots security, the brigade commander said measures are underway to tackle drug abuse and trafficking, describing them as major drivers of crime.
He noted that recent visits by senior military officers, including the General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major-General E.E Emeka, and engagements with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, had strengthened anti-drug operations in Ughelli, Abraka, Warri and other hotspots.
On his part, the Commissioner of Police, Abaniwonda Olufemi highlighted the command’s achievements in collaboration with other security agencies.
These include the neutralisation of several kidnap suspects, recovery of multiple firearms including AK-47, pump-action rifles and the seizure of N5.7 million ransom from kidnappers.
Olufemi assured residents and investors of a peaceful festive season, noting that preparations for the ember months are already underway.
Governor Oborevwori, during the meeting, reiterated his administration’s commitment to infrastructural development, empowerment programmes and strengthened security as the year draws to an end, assuring that the necessary measures are in place to protect lives and property.
