The Kaduna state government has inaugurated a Special Task Force on Community Policing and Drug Control to tackle the activities of criminal gangs terrorising residents.
Speaking at the inauguration on Wednesday in Kaduna, Governor Sani, warned that he will not allow the city to be turned into a haven for criminal gangs.
Represented at the occasion by Hadiza Balarabe, his deputy, Sani said those who threaten the lives and livelihoods of citizens will face the full weight of the law.
He added his administration will not allow a few misguided individuals to destroy the peace that so many have worked hard to build.
He said, ‘’While our security agencies are making commendable progress in defeating insurgents and bandits in our rural areas, we are now witnessing a shift of violence into our urban centres. “What we are beginning to experience amounts to a form of urban terrorism, and we should not allow it to take root.
“We are not only determined to rid our state of violent crime and drugs, but we are also committed to making our streets, neighbourhoods, and homes safe for everyone.’’
Sani also warned security operatives who will be part of the Task Force not to allow themselves to be compromised, stressing that ‘’this is a sacred duty deserving of full dedication and commitment.’’
He said the fight cannot be won by government alone as ‘’we would also liaise with the general public to gain their full cooperation.
“We would work to provide information that would heighten vigilance and their sense of civic responsibility for us to succeed.’’
The governor advised citizens to report known or suspected hideouts of drug sellers and cartels, identify and report syndicates who snatch phones and other valuables.
He also asked citizens to expose buyers and dealers in stolen property.
‘’Our communities must reject a culture of silence. If you see something untoward in your neighbourhoods, please endeavour to say something.
“Security is a collective responsibility, and peace is a shared treasure that we must all protect,’’
Last week a naval officer was stabbed to death by a phone snatcher at a bus stop near Kawo overhead bridge when he stopped to change his flat tyre.
The activities of phone snatchers is becoming a serious threat to residents in Kaduna metropolis.
Sani inaugurates special task force on criminal gangs, phone snatchers
