The Delta House of Assembly has called for continued support for security agencies in the state for operational efficiency.

The chairman of the House Committee on Peace and Security, Isaac Anwuzia, made the call on Friday in Asaba during an oversight visit to the police command in Delta and the 63 Brigade Nigerian Army.

Mr Anwuzia addressed the heads of the two agencies during separate visits, commending the relentless efforts of the police and army in maintaining peace and order in the state.

The chairman emphasised that the fight against crime was a collective responsibility, requiring the support of all stakeholders.

He disclosed that as part of the new framework to enhance security, vigilante groups across the state would, henceforth, be trained by the police.

The lawmaker also said the vigilante groups would be supervised by divisional police officers (DPOs) in their respective local government areas.

Mr Anwuzia explained that the Delta State Local Government Law of 2013 (as amended) mandates councils to submit monthly security reports, which have greatly aided intelligence gathering by the committee.

The lawmaker stressed that the State Community Security Corps Agency Bill, recently passed by the assembly, would centralise vigilante operations and curb abuses by private security outfits in the state.

Responding, the state commissioner of police, Olufemi Abaniwonda, commended the state assembly for its support, saying the passage of the Community Security Corps Bill was commendable.

Mr Abaniwonda highlighted the achievements of the command in recent times, including the recovery of over 30 AK-47 rifles, several locally made firearms, stolen items, and large sums of stolen cash from criminal elements.

On his part, the commander of the 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Moronfolu Shonibare, assured that the army was working around the clock to secure the state.

According to Mr Shonibare, the Nigerian Army is working in synergy with sister agencies to secure Delta from any potential threat to the well-being of its people.

He assured continuous engagement with stakeholders, including the leadership of the various local government councils in the state.

The commander, who said this would prevent crime and foster peace and unity, particularly in sensitive flashpoints, appreciated the assembly’s support and reaffirmed their commitment to securing the state.

(NAN)