Kelvin Bowoto
Ahead of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and other affiliates’ planned two-day nationwide protest over the country’s current economic hardship, Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, has placed all tactical units of the State Police Command on red alert to prevent a breakdown in law and order.
He declared that anyone found wanting would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
He also stated that violent protests are criminal and will not be tolerated.
During a discussion with area commanders, tactical commanders, and DPOs, the CP urged them to devise strategies to mitigate any uncomfortable situations.
DSP Bright Edafe, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), said in a statement on Monday that no one may be coerced to participate in the demonstration.
He told all Deltans, residents and non-residents, that they may go about their lawful responsibilities and enterprises without fear since mechanisms had been put in place to guarantee that the demonstration was peaceful and in accordance with the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun’s, directive.
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“Massive deployments will take place around the state to ensure proper security and safety during the protest, as well as to prevent it from being hijacked.
“As part of measures to ensure that the protest is seamless, the CP had stakeholders meeting with the leaders of the NLC, TUC, and IPMAN on February 22nd, 2024, and discussed measures to achieve a peaceful protest.”
“It is the police’s primary responsibility to ensure the protection of life and property, including the safety of protesters.” He stated that citizens have the right to peaceful protest.
Meanwhile, the CP has authorized the State Intelligence Department (SID) to send undercover operatives to monitor and report on discoveries.
“Manpower has also been drawn from tactical teams such as Safer Highway, Dragon Patrol, Safe Delta, Raiders Unit, Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber Crime Squad (SAKCCS), CD-Decoy, CP Monitoring Unit, State Anti-Cult Unit, Crack Squad, and X-Squad, as well as additional personnel from the Department of Operations, Area Commands, and Divisions.
“Members of the public are advised to report any untoward occurrence in their area to the nearest police station or call the Command Control number on 08036684974,” Olufemi said in a press release.
Techrectory with Agency Report.
