Police seek cooperation against insecurity in Abia

The Abia State Police Command calls on residents to cooperate with security operatives in the state by stepping up their vigilance and actively contributing to community safety.

The state police spokesperson, ASP Maureen Chinaka, in an interview with PUNCH Metro on Thursday, emphasised the critical role that residents should play in ensuring the safety and security of their communities.

Speaking with our correspondent via a phone conversation, Chinaka highlighted the importance of vigilance and cooperation between citizens and security agencies.

“Security is a collective responsibility. You, as an individual, have your part to play just as the police and other sister security agencies of the state have their part to play. You are not being security conscious if you hand your children to somebody you don’t know.”

Her comments were on the heels of a recent successful rescue by the Abia State Police Command of three abducted children in a coordinated operation across Anambra and Delta states.

The children, Gideon Osinachi (eight years old), Obioma Divine Osinachi (six years old), and Israel Osinachi (four years old), were kidnapped by an unknown cyclist hired by their grandmother to take them home after visiting her in Amoba Okoro village, Ikwuanno LGA of Abia State. The children were said to have been kidnapped on May 10, 2024.

Following intense investigative efforts by the police, Obioma was rescued on May 21 in Ekwulobia, Anambra State, and Gideon was found on May 23 in Nkpor, Anambra State. Israel was eventually rescued in Warri, Delta State, on June 13, 2024. The police operation led to the arrest of five suspects, including a Reverend Sister.

The PPRO assured the residents that Abia State remained relatively calm, because of the diligent efforts of the police and their collaboration with other security agencies.

“The police, as the lead agency of the state, are doing their best to ensure that their constitutional mandate is achieved in the state. We are collaborating with sister security agencies, individuals, and anyone willing to cooperate with us.”

She urged residents to actively participate in security measures by reporting any suspicious activity, saying, “ If you see something, say something, so we can do something.”