Delta State Police Commissioner, Abaniwonda Olufemi, has warned protesters against violating the law, stressing that the police will arrest and prosecute any offender.
Olufemi, in a statement, ahead of the planned protest by Nigeria Labour Congress, said the command is fully committed to the security of all, even as he called for a peaceful protest to avoid police wrath.
“I have since ordered a massive deployment of police personnel across the state to ensure adequate security and safety during the protest and to ensure that the protest is not hijacked.
“All the Area Commanders, Tactical Commanders, and Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) have been directed to forestall any breakdown of law and order in the state.
“I have also directed the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department (SCIID) to deploy undercover operatives who will monitor and report their findings.
“Manpower has been drawn from Tactical Teams which include Safer Highway, Dragon Patrol, Safe Delta, Raiders Unit, Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber Crime Squad (SAKCCS), CD-Decoy, CP Monitoring Unit, State Anti-Cult Unit, Crack Squad, X-Squad, and additional personnel were also deployed from Department of Operations, Area Commands, and Divisions,” he said.
According to Olufemi, it is the primary responsibility of the police to ensure the protection of life and property, which includes the security of protesters. But he also reiterated that citizen’s right to protest is a right to peaceful protest. He said violent protest is criminal and will not be tolerated.
He advised members of the public to report any untoward occurrence in their area to the police, assuring residents,and non-residents to go about their lawful duties.
