The Kogi State Police Command has warned criminals to stay away from the state as its November 11, 2023 governorship election approaches.
The warning was issued by the Command’s Commissioner, Onuoha Bertrand, in Lokoja, the state capital, on Tuesday.
Bertrand said: “Those who engage in criminal activities are warned to desist from such and hand over their arms and ammunition to the police.
“They should engage in something meaningful to their lives or be prepared to face the full consequences of their actions.”
The CP issued the warning when he paraded nine suspects and arms and ammunition recovered from criminals before newsmen.
He also warned against political thuggery, violence and crisis before, during and after the governorship election.
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Bertrand said those on parade were responsible for armed robbery, thuggery, kidnapping and culpable homicide in a Kogi community, Onicha-Igo in Ofu Local Government Area, that they had terrorised for long.
The leader of one of the criminal gangs was still at large, he said.
He added that others were arrested either for raising false alarm or for committing other crimes in different parts of Kogi State.
Bertrand said all the suspects confessed to their various crimes and admitted to have carried out several kidnapping and robbery of travellers on highways passing through Kogi State.
The Commissioner listed arms and ammunition recovered to include two Ak47 rifles, two AK47 magazines, locally-made pistol, three Dane guns, three machetes, military camouflage, charms, live ammunition, cell phones and SIM cards.
He added: “Police have adopted comprehensive crime prevention and detection strategies and operational measures, which include intensive raids of identified criminal hideouts, black spots and flash points across Kogi.
“We have also provided an avenue for effective collaboration with critical stakeholders by giving them access to share information and intelligence that will assist in crime control and management.”
Bertrand urged Kogi State residents, particularly traditional and religious leaders, youth groups, market organisations and all and sundry to support in the fight against criminals, especially kidnappers, armed robbers and cultists.
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