Abia to Convert Criminal Hideouts to Market

THE Abia State Police Command, in collaboration with local government authorities, has inspected volatile spots in the state, to enhance security across the state.

The command, through its Divisional Police Officers, inspected volatile spots within their areas of operations.

As part of the comprehensive crime-prevention strategy, the state Commissioner of Police, Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, accompanied by the Mayor, of Umuahia North Local Government, Victor Ikeji, on Wednesday, personally undertook crucial assessments of some areas.

The mayor said the shanties, serving as criminal hideouts, would be demolished while the government would build a motor park and market on the land.

According to the mayor, demolishing the shanties would also have positive security implications as it would displace criminals and drug peddlers around the city centre.

During the exercise, the team focused on areas known to be hotbeds of criminal activities and drug peddling in the Umuahia North Local Government Area.

Some of the spots visited were the bicycle repair workshop behind Okigwe Park in Umuahia and the former Ohuhu Motor Park, all in Abia, among others.

Speaking after the inspection, the commissioner of Police, who said the shanties were known hubs for criminals and drug peddlers, stressed the importance of transforming the volatile areas into productive spaces.

“By reclaiming these spaces from criminal elements, the state can foster a safer environment conducive to economic growth and development. This proactive approach aligns with our commitment to ensuring the well-being and security of all residents in Abia State.

“The Abia State Police Command remains dedicated to collaborating with local government authorities and other stakeholders to implement effective security measures, by addressing root causes of crime and implementing strategic interventions,” the CP said.

He assured the mayor of the partnership of the Nigerian Police Force in Abia State during the demolition and rebuilding of the shanties, as he promised to partner with the mayor to clear Umuahia of all forms of criminal elements.