By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The Anambra State Police Command has announced the enforcement of strict security operatives’ identification measures across the State, as part of renewed efforts to curb the growing abuse and illegal use of security uniforms by unauthorized persons.
The State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday through the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Ikenga Tochukwu.
According to the statement, the decision followed recent security assessments which revealed that some individuals have been illegally using the uniforms of the Police and other security agencies to commit crimes, intimidate unsuspecting members of the public, and evade lawful scrutiny.
The Commissioner of Police noted that the newly introduced directives are specifically designed to ensure proper identification of all genuine security personnel on duty and to completely eliminate the activities of impersonators whose actions pose serious threats to public safety.
CP Orutugu further emphasized that any individual found wearing, selling, or making use of Police uniforms or those of other security agencies, including kits and accoutrements, without proper authorization, will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
He stressed that security uniforms remain classified government property and warned that unlawful possession or usage of such items constitutes a serious criminal offense.
As part of the enforcement measures, the CP ordered all Divisional Police Officers, tactical units, and patrol teams across the State to intensify visibility policing and carry out thorough verification of personnel identities during all security operations.
Residents of the State were also encouraged to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious individual suspected of impersonating security operatives.
To aid public participation in the security effort, the Command further made available emergency contact lines, urging Ndi Anambra and residents to report credible security information through the Police Control Room on 07039194332 or the Police Public Relations Officer on 08039334002.
Concluding, the Command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and assured the public that no effort would be spared in flushing out criminal elements hiding under the guise of security agencies.
