From Okey Sampson, Umuahia
Governor Alex Otti has vowed that Abia State would no longer share any part of its territory with criminal elements and their sponsors, warning hoodlums to leave the state immediately or be crushed.
Otti, who gave the warning in Umuahia on Tuesday while launching a security initiative codenamed “Operation Crush”, said the scheme was part of efforts of Government to strengthen the security architecture of the state.
The Governor while stating that the programme was a strong and coordinated response to the lingering insecurity in Abia, said it was designed to tackle crime and insecurity in the State head-on.
“The goal of this initiative was to counter incidences of kidnapping and armed robbery in the State and as such, security personnel involved in this operation should pay special attention to flash points, especially around Umunneochi and Isuikwuato axis, Aba, Umuahia and other parts of the State.
“I admonish the security personnel to be brave and ruthless to the criminal elements and at the same time guard against harassment of innocent citizens”.
Otti made it clear that those who harbor and provide assistance to the criminals would be dealt with according to the law and urged Abians as well as residents to volunteer intelligence and useful information to enable the scheme succeed as hotlines would soon be made available for such information.
The Governor informed that the Operation Crush was a joint taskforce comprising the Police, Army, Navy, DSS and NSCDC and its aim was to identify and respond swiftly to security threats anywhere in the State.
Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Kenneth Kalu said the launch of the programme was in line with the Governors promise during his inauguration.
He said Operation Crush was a security initiative that would enable the people sleep with their two eyes closed and equally bring more investors to the State and urged all to be part of it.
Responding on behalf of other security chiefs in the State, the Abia State Commissioner of Police, Kenechukwu Onwuemelie said security is not just about making noise openly, but doing the needful behind the scene.
He thanked the Governor for demonstrating commitment in ensuring high level security in the State and assured they would do their best to enable the scheme succeed.
Otti handed over the first batch of 20 security Hilux vans for the scheme, to the security personnel.