The Rivers State Police Command has issued a stern warning against night travel along the Elele-Omerelu and Isiokpo-Elele Roads in Ikwerre Local Government Area, due to the rising spate of kidnappings and other criminal activities along that route.
The State Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Mustapha, conveyed the warning while speaking in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, in view of the forthcoming yuletide celebrations.
He emphasised that the command has ramped up security measures along these routes to address the security concerns effectively, adding that operatives have carried out a comprehensive security deployment along the roads from Airport Roundabout Omagwa to Isiokpo, Elele, and extending to the boundary with Imo, and from Elele to Omoku, Elele-Alumini. “By the grace of God, these areas are now fortified”, he stated.
He urged road users to limit their movements during the night hours, stressing that traveling after midnight is extremely risky.
CP Mustapha also disclosed that the command has engaged in talks with local vigilante groups in the area to find lasting solutions to the security challenges. He noted that the discussions have highlighted the involvement of some former members of local vigilante groups, notably the Onelga Security Peace Advisory Committee (OSPAC) in the ongoing criminal activities.
“These are not just ordinary criminals but former members of the same organization who have turned to criminality. They take advantage of our weakened presence to carry out their activities.
“The leadership of OSPAC has assured us they are committed to helping us identify and arrest these culprits. They have pledged their support in flushing out these bad elements from their ranks,” he added.
