The police command in Rivers State has put measures in place to ensure the safety of residents and visitors before, during and after the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

The spokesperson for the command, Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed this to journalists in Port Harcourt on Monday.

Ms Iringe-Koko stated that the command had collaborated with sister security agencies to secure the state.

She said that personnel had been deployed to strategic locations across the state to ensure the rapid response of operatives against any security breach.

“Our tactical teams have been deployed to key locations, including entry and exit points, waterways, motor parks, hotels, recreational centres, and identified hotspots.

“This deployment is aimed at ensuring visibility policing, enhancing surveillance and facilitating a swift response to potential security threats,” she said.

Ms Iringe-Koko further stated that area commanders and divisional police officers had been directed to deploy both operational and intelligence assets to ensure hitch-free celebrations.

“In addition, the command is partnering with traditional rulers, youth organisations and religious leaders to promote trust, build public confidence and encourage early intelligence sharing.

“We are confident that this proactive approach will forestall potential security threats and prevent incidents during the festive period,” she added.

The police spokesperson advised parents and guardians to caution their children and wards against the use of knockouts and fireworks during the season.

She explained that such devices are explosives, which are dangerous and capable of disrupting public peace, as well as causing unnecessary panic and tension.

“Defaulters will be arrested and prosecuted if caught detonating knockouts and fireworks,” she said.

Ms Iringe-Koko reaffirmed the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property and urged residents and visitors to remain security conscious.

She advised them to ensure that doors and windows are properly secured before retiring for the night and encouraged them to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station.

“Residents and visitors can contact us through the command’s contact numbers: Control Room – 08032003514 and CRU – 08120822987,” she said. 

(NAN)