Residents of Ijede and surrounding communities in Ikorodu have commended the police command in Lagos State for the deployment of the ‘Command Sweepers Squad,’ saying it is prompt response to security concerns in the area.

The residents, who spoke during an interview on Tuesday, said the squad’s visibility had already reduced anxiety in the area.

The squad is stationed in Ijede and will carry out regular patrols, stop-and-search duties, intelligence gathering, and surveillance of known hotspots in the area.

The residents said they were optimistic that the deployment would help curb crime, improve emergency response times, and strengthen security across Ijede and other Ikorodu communities.

However, they called for sustained patrols and adequate logistical support for security personnel to ensure the success of the operation.

A resident of Ijede, Adewale Ogunbiyi, said the deployment demonstrated the commitment of the Inspector-General of Police and the police command in the state to ensuring the safety of residents.

“We have been raising concerns about security issues in some parts of Ikorodu, especially around Ijede and neighbouring communities. The quick response by the police is commendable and reassuring.

“The presence of more security personnel will certainly discourage criminal activities and make residents feel safer,” he said.

A trader at Igbogbo, Funmilayo Agboola, noted that the squad’s operations would boost public confidence and support economic activities in the area.

She, however, urged residents to complement the efforts of security agencies by providing useful information and remaining vigilant.

“No security outfit can succeed without the cooperation of the people. We must report suspicious movements and activities to the authorities promptly,” she said.

Another resident, Olusegun Balogun, described the deployment as a proactive measure aimed at crime prevention.

“The police deserve commendation for acting swiftly. Security is everyone’s responsibility and residents must also play their part by supporting law enforcement agencies with credible information,” he said.

A resident of Elepe, Ruth Ekanem, said the increased police presence would help restore confidence among residents who often travel at odd hours.

“We are happy to see the police taking practical steps to improve security. Criminals will think twice when they know there is a dedicated squad monitoring the area,” she said.

On his part,  a resident of Ijede, Hassan Lawal, urged community associations and youth groups to collaborate closely with security agencies to sustain the gains of the initiative.

He stated, “While we appreciate the Inspector-General of Police and the Lagos State commissioner of police for this intervention, residents must also do more by embracing community policing and remaining security conscious at all times.”

 (NAN)