The police command in Cross River has vowed to rid the state of crime and criminality before and during the yuletide.

This is contained in a statement by the command’s spokesperson, SP Irene Ugbo, which was made available to journalists in Calabar on Monday.

She said police commissioner Sule Balarabe directed surveillance patrol and visibility policing across the state to forestall any breach of peace before, during and after the festive season.

Ms Ugbo pointed out that the commissioner directed area commanders, divisional police officers and tactical commanders to ensure the safety and security of the public.

She further noted that Balarabe directed that the issue of kidnapping, especially along the busy Calabar-Ogoja highway, should be dealt with.

“In the same vein, the police command will not fold its hands and watch any group of individuals, under whatever guise, to obstruct or cause a breakdown of law and order,” said the police statement.

It added, “Furthermore, the CP calls on residents to continue to support the police and other sister security agencies in the provision of genuine and actionable intelligence to enable the police to smoke out all the local criminal elements perpetuating evil in our dear state.” 

(NAN)