Determined to fight crime in Imo state to zero point, the state governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, has launched Imo State Security Network and Emergency Service with the aim to assist security agencies apprehend criminals in the state.
Speaking during the official launching of the Imo state security network and emergency service at the Ahiajoku Convention Centre, Owerri, Okorocha said that the Imo security network and emergency service will partner with all the security agencies in the state to fish out criminals in various autonomous communities.
Okorocha who was worried over the high rate of crimes in the state vowed that his administration will deal ruthlessly with criminals and politicians who sponsor them to carry out their nefarious activities.
The governor observed that one of the challenges of his administration has been insecurity in the state and urged all traditional rulers in the state to take the responsibility of security in their various autonomous communities in order to complement the efforts of the state government, adding that those who aid kidnappers will also face capital punishment.
He assured them that the state government will make available all the equipment needed to execute their job.
Earlier in a speech, the Commissioner for Special Duties explained that the members of the Imo State Security Network and Emergency Service have been trained to work under the state police command and have been divided into 9 units with each comprising thirty six (36) members pointing out that they will be given telephone numbers with which the public will contact them.
Speaking also, the Commander 34 Artillery Brigade Obinze, Brigadier General M.A.
Alkali assured the govenor that the Army in the state will support his administration, especially in the area of
security, adding that the Chief of Army Staff has given approval for four(4) new security post along water ways in Oguta and other riverine areas in the state.
The state commissioner of Police who was represented by the officer in charge of operations, Mr. Celestine Okoye, urged members of Imo security network and emergency service not to use their position and equipment to intimidate innocent people.
In his speech, the trainer of the members of the Imo state security network and emergency services, Mr. Victor Akuchie, advised the security men to justify the training given to them while on training camps.
Highlights of the occasion include the parade by the men of Imo state Security Network and Emergency Services.
Dignitaries present at the occasion included all traditional rulers, the Speaker and members of the state House of Assembly.