The Cross River State Police Command has announced a significant breakthrough in its fight against crime, successfully intercepting a number of stolen vehicles and dismantling illicit betting centres that were being used as criminal hideouts.
Police, NUJ Forge Stronger Alliance for Security
The disclosure was made by the State Commissioner of Police, CP Rashid Bello, over the weekend when he received a delegation from the state council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) at the State Police Headquarters in Calabar. The meeting, described as a courtesy visit, solidified a commitment to closer collaboration between the security agency and the media to preserve Cross River's status as one of Nigeria's most peaceful states.
Addressing the journalists, CP Bello described the press as "the last oversight body," highlighting their indispensable role in holding institutions accountable and bringing urgent security matters to public attention. He revealed that the Command's recent successes are the result of relentless, behind-the-scenes efforts to neutralise threats and prevent attacks across both coastal and hinterland communities.
Silent Operations and Intelligence Sharing Yield Results
CP Bello emphasised that many security achievements in recent months stemmed from robust intelligence-sharing among the Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), the military, and other allied agencies. He stated that the Command acts daily on intelligence reports concerning sea piracy, gun running, and planned kidnappings, working discreetly to abort such plans.
"If we don't tell you, you won't even know. What you see as peace today comes from hard work behind the scenes," the Commissioner noted. He added that the Command is also enforcing the Inspector-General of Police's ban on fireworks, with operatives deployed to markets to track sellers of banned explosives ahead of the Christmas celebrations.
Journalists Laud Improved Security, Call for Festive Vigilance
In her remarks, the Chairman of the Cross River State Council of the NUJ, Archibong Bassey, said the visit aimed to strengthen partnership with the Police to enhance public safety and improve information-sharing, especially as the festive season approaches. She praised the Command for the noticeable improvement in security across the state, specifically mentioning areas like Satellite Town, which previously grappled with frequent cases of robbery and kidnapping.
The NUJ Chairman confirmed that journalists in the state have observed a clear reduction in theft and violent crimes, attributing this positive development to the vigilance of police personnel. She, however, appealed for heightened security during the festive period, warning that criminals often exploit increased human and vehicular movement to perpetrate crimes.
"We are partners in building the state and the nation. We will continue to support the Command," Archibong Bassey affirmed.
The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing to deepen communication channels, strengthen mutual trust, and work hand-in-hand to maintain Cross River's reputation as a peaceful and safe environment for all residents and visitors.
