The police command in Niger State has directed its commanders to engage the public in intelligence gathering and responsive policing as yuletide season approaches.

This is contained in a statement on Tuesday in Minna issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, Wasiu Abiodun.

Mr Abiodun said the measure was a strategy to secure lives and property in the ember month.

He said, “The months of September to December are customarily known and referred to as “ember months.” They are usually associated with an upsurge in social, economic and political activities culminating in the rise in human and vehicular movement. This unfortunately also culminates in increased crimes, such as armed robbery, house/shop breaking, theft of vehicles, traffic violations and other related anti-social behaviours.’’

According to him, the state Commissioner of Police, Shawulu Danmamman, has directed area commanders, tactical commanders and divisional police officers to emplace robust crime prevention measures.

He said they should ensure effective visibility policing with adequate community/stakeholder engagement for intelligence gathering and responsive policing.

He said that the operation order for the season had been drawn with an adequate number of police personnel mobilised across the state.

Besides, the police spokesperson said that Operation Flush and other operational assets of the command had been deployed to tackle prospective urban crime.

The CP urged residents of the state and other members of the public to be vigilant and security cautious within their immediate environment.

He further urged them to report any suspicious situation to the police and other security agencies for immediate intervention.

He enjoined the public to contact the following phone numbers in case of any distress situation for quick response: 07031964389 and 08075391601. 

(NAN)