ASABA/Nigeria: Residents of Delta State are expected to witness increased police presence across major towns and communities as security agencies intensify operations to prevent possible cult-related violence linked to the annual “7/7” celebration reportedly associated with the Black Axe confraternity, popularly known as Aye.
The Delta State Police Command disclosed the development in a statement issued on Sunday by its Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, saying the proactive security measures followed credible intelligence indicating plans by suspected cult members to commemorate the event within the state. According to the command, similar celebrations in previous years have been linked to violent clashes, loss of lives and other criminal activities capable of threatening public peace.
To forestall any breakdown of law and order, the Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, has ordered a comprehensive intelligence-led security operation across the state, directing the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the Department of Operations to coordinate the exercise.
The police said Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Commanders had been directed to intensify intelligence gathering, surveillance, visibility policing and sustained raids on identified criminal hideouts, black spots and locations suspected to be used for unlawful gatherings.
The command added that officers would maintain strategic patrols and deployments across the state to deny criminal elements the opportunity to carry out criminal activities.
The police warned that no unlawful gathering or cult-related activity would be tolerated, stressing that anyone found participating in cultism or engaging in acts capable of disrupting public peace would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
According to the command, all operations will be intelligence-driven, professionally conducted and carried out in strict compliance with extant laws while respecting the rights of law-abiding citizens.
Commissioner of Police Yemi Oyeniyi reassured residents of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, urging members of the public to remain vigilant and continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies.
He assured residents that all intelligence received would be treated with utmost confidentiality and acted upon promptly.
The latest operation is part of the Delta State Police Command’s sustained efforts to combat cultism and other violent crimes, particularly during periods security agencies consider sensitive due to intelligence reports or recurring criminal activities.
