The Assistant Inspector General (AIG), of Police, Zone 9, Suleiman Yusuf, has warned officers and men of the Force, Ebonyi Command, against extortion and urged them to maintain a corruption-free work environment.\
Yusuf gave the warning on Wednesday in Abakaliki, during his official visit to the command.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that zone 9 comprise of Imo, Abia and Ebonyi.
He emphasised the importance of promoting a positive image of the force, rather than engaging in acts that would tarnish its reputation.
According to him, extortion of civilians by personnel brings bad image to the police force.
“So be more diligent and professional in your operation. You must know that you have your work to do and always do it well, believing that your reward will come.”
While emphasising the importance of responsible social media use among personnel, the AIG also urged them to refrain from using social platforms as a means to air grievances.
“Instead, maintain a professional online presence and uphold the integrity of the force.
“This call to action aims to promote a positive image of the police and foster a culture of discipline and responsibility among its ranks.
“Be disciplined in discharging your duties. Work hand in hand with other security agencies in the efforts to protect lives and property.
“Above all, I commend you on your operation of 2024, and I urge you to keep the flag flying. Ebonyi is the least state on crime petition in the zone,” he said.
Earlier, the State Commissioner of Police, Mrs Anthonia Uche-Anya, explained that six Area commands formed the state command.
Uche-Anya listed the area commands to include Abakaliki, Onueke, Afikpo, Ohaukwu, Nkalagu, and Ohaozara, as well as 20 divisions.
She highlighted the prevalent crimes in the state, to in include murder, cultism, communal clashes, and kidnapping.
Others she said were, rape, boundary disputes, and activities related to separatist groups, IPOB.
She however said that since assumption of office in 2024, she had built on existing strategies to address insecurity in the state.
“Since I assumed duty as the 27th Commissioner of Police on Sept. 17, 2024, I have built upon existing strategies to address security challenges in the state.
“I visited the 13 Area Councils in the state, engaged with chairpersons and critical stakeholders, and gathered firsthand information about their challenges and effective ways to police their communities.
“We have successfully addressed various security challenges in the state through stakeholder-dialogue.
“It is important to note that the command faces a shortage of manpower, which is a common issue affecting the Nigeria Police Force.
“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for your visit, which will undoubtedly boost the morale of the officers in the command.
“We assure you that we will continue our efforts to reduce crime to the barest minimum,” the commissioner said. (NAN)
