Akwa Ibom CP Vows Zero Tolerance for Crime
By Mustapha Salisu
The newly appointed Commissioner of Police for Akwa Ibom State, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, has pledged a commitment to tackling crime and ensuring peace and security in the state.
Addressing journalists at his maiden press briefing at the State Police Command Headquarters, Ikot Akpan Abia, Uyo, CP Azare emphasized the importance of collaboration with the media, describing them as vital partners in progress.
With a background in journalism and a degree in Mass Communication from Bayero University Kano, the Commissioner expressed confidence in maintaining a strong relationship with the press, underscoring the need for accurate and timely reporting.
He assured the public of his open-door policy and stressed that communication lines with the police command would always remain accessible.
CP Azare thanked Governor Umo Eno for his support in promoting security in the state and reiterated the police command’s determination to address pressing security challenges, including herder-farmer conflicts, communal clashes, cultism, kidnapping, and vandalism.
He promised strict enforcement of the state’s anti-grazing law and warned perpetrators of crimes against lawful citizens that they would face the full weight of the law.
Highlighting recent achievements, the Commissioner detailed successful operations carried out by the command. Among them was the arrest of suspects involved in transformer vandalism, fire service truck theft, kidnapping, and cases of sodomy.
In one instance, operatives rescued victims abducted from the Ministry of Justice and dismantled a kidnappers’ den in Abak Local Government Area. Additionally, several suspects linked to cult activities, unlawful possession of firearms, and impersonation were apprehended, with significant evidence recovered.
CP Azare also noted ongoing investigations into criminal activities, including car theft and tricycle operators’ involvement in robberies. He affirmed the command’s resolve to apprehend suspects on the run and dismantle networks of criminal syndicates operating in the state.
The Commissioner urged community members, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders to join hands with the police in implementing community policing strategies aimed at tackling the root causes of crime.
He called on the media to support these efforts by shaping public opinion and promoting peace, urging reporters to verify information with the command before publication to avoid misinformation.
In closing, CP Azare declared that Akwa Ibom would no longer serve as a safe haven for criminals. He assured citizens of the command’s dedication to protecting law-abiding residents and encouraged them to report suspicious activities to the police.
“Together, we can secure our dear state and foster an environment where peace and development thrive,” he said.
