Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has called on police formations and commands to strengthen inter-state policing, to stem the tide of cross-border crimes.

This is contained in a statement by the spokesperson to the governor, Mallam Rasheed Olawale, on Saturday and made available to newsmen in Osogbo.

He said the call was part of the security meeting resolutions held with heads of security agencies in the state.

The governor noted that criminal attacks had become a major issue in different parts of the state, stressing the situation needed urgent and concerted efforts and attention.

He commended the proactive actions of the police and other security agencies but called for strengthening of intelligence gathering and sharing while assuring that his administration was ready to support the crusade.

He urged them to establish operational synergy and relationships among the state commands, saying it would stop criminals in their tracks before they launched cross-border raids.

Mr Adeleke said that Osun was a peaceful state, with strongly responsive security apparatuses, adding that, however, the recent inter-state raids by armed robbers demanded urgent review of the strategies.

“I am elated to have all of you here led by the zonal Assistant Inspector General of Police.

“Recent security breaches are traced to inter-state raids by criminals. So, it is productive that we have all the relevant officers here.

“Let us strengthen collaboration and partnership. Osun must remain as peaceful as ever,” the governor said.

The statement also reported Akande Sikiru, the AIG in charge of Zone 11, as commending the governor for his support to the security agencies.

Mr Sikiru assured the governor that the police service was restrategising to sustain the records of peaceful existence.

“Your Excellency, we are more than ready to sustain peace in the state. You have a team of dynamic and gallant officers who are already deploying a technology-driven approach in law enforcement and prevention of crimes.

“Permit me to express our appreciation for the logistics support your administration was providing for our operations.

“We know you will do more for us as we also respond proactively to the security needs of the state,” he said.

(NAN)