Imo State Police Command, in synergy with other security agencies, has deployed watertight security across the state’s nooks and crannies to prevent any security breach ahead of the unlawful three-day sit-at-home order by the proscribed IPOB/ESN.
This was made known through a statement made available to LEADERSHIP, signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Henry Okoye.
He stressed that the order by IPOB/ESN was targeted at destabilizing the peace and socio-economic activities in the state and the planned nationwide protest from 1 to 10 August 2024 across the country.
The PPRO revealed that security operatives drawn from the Police, Armed Forces, and other security agencies have been strategically deployed and tasked with carrying out a 15-day show of force and confidence-building patrol across the state’s 27 LGAs.
According to him, this is to ensure public safety and deter miscreants from disrupting law and order.
“Detectives from the State Intelligence Department have also been deployed to conduct covert intelligence gathering to monitor the threats 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 strengthen public confidence in going about their lawful businesses without any fear or intimidation.”
The commissioner of police 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.
However, he assured that the command had deployed stringent security measures to prevent any form of civil unrest.
To this end, the police commissioner reaffirmed the command’s unwavering commitment to protecting citizens’ rights while ensuring their maximum safety.
He urged Imo citizens to be security conscious and swiftly report any suspicious person or activity seen within their vicinity to the nearest police station.
