Operation zero kidnapping launched in Anambra

Operation Udo-Gachi zero kidnapping and other violent crime has been launched in Anambra State.

The launching took place at the Amawbia flyover by Enugu-Onitsha Highway Awka on Monday.

In his opening address, the State Commissioner of Police and the head of the operation, CP Ikioye Orutugu said the essence of the operation is to show Anambra residents that the Police and other sister agencies, comprises, Army, Navy, Nigerian Custom Service, Immigration Service, FRSC, Civil Defence, Nigerian Correctional Service and the Anambra Vigilant Group are gallantly ready to eliminate completely kidnapping and other violent crime in the state.

According to the CP, the purpose is to let Ndi Anambra and residents know after a review and evaluation of policing capabilities to nip in the bud serious crimes like Armed robbery, kidnapping, and other related situations, especially within this Easter period and beyond.

“The Police as the lead agency in internal security have placed an Operation code-named _*Operation Udo ga chi Zero Kidnapping and Other Violent Crimes in the State* a proactive template to assuage the fear of the unknown to effectively police the State by encouraging the great people of Anambra State to come home en-masse for this festive period.

“Let us reiterate that no one can take the glory alone in the efforts of sustaining safety and security in the State, as the Operation comprises the Police, the Army from 302 Artillery Regiment (GS), the Navy from the Naval Outpost, Department of State Service, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Services (NIS), Nigerian Correctional Service, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Anambra State Vigilante and most importantly Ndi Anambra and its teeming populace who have resolved to work with the security agencies in sharing information that may lead to the arrest and prosecution of kidnappers and other criminals.

The Security forces are now more motivated, as the operation will give them a more coordinated approach to reclaiming the public space. It will also serve as a daily brief to always restrategize as the operation unfolds.

“Furthermore, various Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) as well as other Security Formations/Security agencies have been directed to conduct massive raids on identified criminal flashpoints and hot spots within their Areas of Responsibility (AOR). This strategic move is aimed at dislodging criminal elements. It will also assist the security agencies to stay ahead of criminal threats and reinforce public confidence as well as ensuring the continued safety and security of all residents.

“Operation Udo ga chi Zero Kidnapping and other violent crimes in the State* is intelligence-driven with Stop-and-Search operations, Joint Security targeted patrols and the Operatives posted to identify locations with Amorured Personnel Carriers on alert to respond to any untoward situations.

“To this end, we have a Joint Security Information Room for Ndi Anambra to report any suspicious activity. The numbers are: Police – 07039194332; NDLEA – 09136832679; NSCDC – 08066769442; FRSC – 122; Anambra State Vigilantes – 511 and 122 and Others we shall provide as the Operations commence.

“While we seek the cooperation of Ndi Anambra and its residents, we also wish to state that the Operatives have been fully briefed to be civil to members of the public.

“Lastly, we want to thank the State Government and good-spirited *Ndi Anambra* for their goodwill in fixing some of our Operational vehicles and Armoured Personnel Carriers.

“Together, we can make Anambra State a safer and livable homeland for everyone, the CP added.

The launched also witnessed the presence of the Senior Special Adviser to governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo on Security/Anti-cultism matters, Hon Kingsley Ezika, representative of Anambra Restaurants and Bar Owners Association.and the media.

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