David Oladimeji
The Rivers State Police Command has assured residents of a peaceful and secure Yuletide season with the activation of comprehensive security measures designed to safeguard lives and property across the state.
The Command said the festive period presents an opportunity for sober reflection, unity and prayers for peace, while stressing the need for collective responsibility in maintaining law and order throughout the celebrations.
Under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, the Police have strengthened collaboration with sister security agencies to ensure a coordinated and effective security presence during the season.
As part of the strategy, tactical and conventional police teams have been deployed to strategic locations, including major entry and exit points, waterways, motor parks, hotels, recreational centres, churches, mosques and other identified hotspots.
The deployment, according to the Command, is aimed at boosting visibility policing, enhancing surveillance and ensuring rapid response to any security threats that may arise during the festivities.
The Commissioner of Police has also directed all Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers to fully utilise both operational and intelligence assets within their respective jurisdictions to guarantee hitch-free celebrations.
In addition to security deployments, the Command is intensifying community engagement by working closely with traditional rulers, youth groups and religious leaders to build trust and encourage timely intelligence sharing.
This collaborative approach, the police noted, is intended to proactively identify and neutralise potential security threats before they escalate during the festive period.
Parents and guardians were advised to exercise caution by discouraging their children from engaging in fireworks, pyrotechnics and knock-out shooting, which pose serious safety risks.
The Rivers State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting residents before, during and after the Yuletide, urging the public to remain vigilant, secure their homes and promptly report suspicious activities to the police.
