Police devise operational strategies to secure Anambra, Enugu

They also warned criminals operating in the two states to either repent or be ready to face the full weight of the law.

The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu, and his Enugu State counterpart, Mamman, have agreed to devise operational strategies aimed at proactively policing the two neighboring states.

This is in line with the enhanced policing guidelines of the Inspector-General of Police.

The commissioners identified the infiltration of criminals between the neighboring states as a major security challenge requiring urgent intervention to address violent crimes and the activities of subversive criminal elements.

According to a press statement by the Police Public Relations Officer in Anambra State, Tochukwu Ikenga, both security heads pledged to collaborate, share intelligence, and pool operational resources to combat violent crimes at the borders and within their respective states.

It states that the commissioners reiterated their commitment to decisively combat all forms of crime and criminality in both states, with the aim of ensuring maximum public security and safety.

The meeting, which was held at the Anambra State Command Headquarters, was attended by the Deputy Commissioners of Police in charge of Operations and other officers from both Commands.

In recent years, Anambra and Enugu states in Nigeria’s Southeast have grappled with escalating insecurity, profoundly affecting their socio-economic landscapes. The prevalence of criminal activities, including kidnapping, armed robbery, and communal conflicts, has not only threatened lives but also hindered development and instilled fear among residents.

In Anambra State, the surge in violent crimes has been alarming. Communities near Onitsha and Awka have witnessed increased violence, leading many residents to seek refuge elsewhere.

Similarly, Enugu State has faced its share of insecurity, notably the tragic Nimbo massacre in 2016, where armed assailants attacked several villages, resulting in significant loss of life. More recently, communities like Eha-Amufu in the Isi-Uzo Local Government Area have experienced rising insecurity, disrupting socio-economic activities and displacing residents.

In response, the police commands of Anambra and Enugu have collaborated to combat the rising insecurity, aiming to restore peace and stability to the region. This alliance underscores the importance of joint efforts and intelligence sharing in addressing security challenges.​

Addressing the insecurity in Anambra and Enugu requires a comprehensive approach that tackles both the symptoms and underlying causes. Enhanced security measures, community engagement, and socio-economic interventions are crucial to restoring peace and fostering development in these states.