The Special Task Force, Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), maintaining peace in Plateau and parts of Kaduna and Bauchi states, says its officers and men will be impartial and avoid bribe-taking in their operations.

Nigeria’s security forces are notorious for extorting impoverished civilians, especially when deployed in troubled areas.

Maj.-Gen. Dominic Onyemulu, Commander OPSH, disclosed this during a visit to Polycarp Lubo, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Chairman in Plateau, on Thursday in Jos.

“I have also told my personnel to desist from taking bribes and extorting innocent citizens.

“They are being paid salaries and other allowances, and so, they have no reason to extort innocent civilians.

“Our duty is to safeguard lives and property, promote a peaceful Plateau and not extort the people,” he said.

The commander, who said he had sensitised his personnel on the need to treat Plateau residents equally, stressed that such a move would win the hearts and minds of the people.

He explained further, “Since my assumption as commander on March 11, I have been going around sensitising my men on the need to be neutral, impartial, and just in carrying out their legitimate duties of ensuring a peaceful environment.

“This is part of my philosophy, and I will ensure all my men key into it.

“So, I want to assure the people that my personnel will not take side with any group or tribe, but will work for the return of total peace to Plateau.”

Mr Onyemelu called on the state’s residents to support the military and other security agencies in their efforts to stem the tide of insecurity.

(NAN)