The state Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, presented the cheques in Ikot Akpan-abia in Uyo on Wednesday.

Mr Azare said, “In a move to support the families of fallen police officers and recognise the dedication of its personnel, the Akwa Ibom State police command, on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, disbursed a total of N46,995 million in welfare schemes and promoted officers.’’

He presented the cheques on behalf of the IG Under the Force’s Family welfare and Group Life Assurance Scheme to the families of police officers who died in the line of duty.

Mr Azare commended the IG for the initiative.

He noted that the funds would serve as a vital support system for the families and demonstrate that the Nigeria Police Force has not forgotten the sacrifices of their loved ones.

Speaking On behalf of the beneficiaries, Jesse Udosen, expressed gratitude to the IG, saying that the funds would be used judiciously for the benefit of the families.

Meanwhile, Mr Azare also decorated 12 newly promoted officers to the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSPs) at the state headquarters in Ikot Akpan Abia, Uyo.

He charged the newly promoted officers to regard their promotion as a call to higher responsibility, saying that the rewards for hard work are more work.

Mr Azare urged them to continue to maintain professionalism, shun corruption, and remain dedicated to their duties.

Speaking on behalf of the promoted officers, DSP Nsikak Udedeh, thanked the IG and the command for the recognition.

Udedeh pledged that the beneficiaries would not disappoint the leadership as they advance in their policing careers.

(NAN)