By SAMPSON Uhuegbu
Commissioner of Police in Cross River State, Rashid Afegbua has disclosed that his command has been conducting discreet and targeted operations aimed at dismantling identified criminal networks, including kidnap gangs and other security threats.
He made this disclosure in a statement signed by the command’s PPRO, Eitokpah Sunday, reeling out their efforts to contain crimes in the state.
He stated that the targeted operations were being intensified in areas prone to security threats, including Calabar Metropolis, Akpabuyo, Odukpani, Akamkpa, Ikom, Obubra, Ogoja, and other border communities.
“These efforts are aimed at dismantling kidnapping syndicates, curbing cult-related activities, armed robbery, and other forms of violent crimes, as well as securing strategic corridors across the State.
“Our Key operational priorities are focused on the disruption of criminal networks, maintenance of law and order, and prevention of unlawful assemblies.
“These efforts are reinforced through intelligence-led operations, including sustained raids on identified black spots and criminal hideouts across the State,” he said.
The commissioner said that in furtherance of community policing, Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers have been directed to convene stakeholders’ meetings with traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, and other relevant stakeholders within their Areas of Responsibility so as to strengthen collaboration, enhance intelligence gathering, and promote shared responsibility in ensuring security.
He added that they intensified visible patrols across Area Commands, Divisions, waterways, and other strategic locations within the State.
Afegbua said this was complemented by enhanced stop-and-search operations along major highways, entry and exit routes, and identified flashpoints, alongside sustained day and night patrols and coordinated joint operations with other security agencies to strengthen overall security coverage.
