The Umuoparaozara autonomous community in Olokoro, Umuahia South LGA of Abia State has introduced a community security outfit to curb criminal activities in the community.
The community also announced that its youths have intensified routine bush combing exercises to strengthen grassroots security, and complement the efforts of the Abia State government and Federal security agencies.
Speaking during the inauguration, the traditional ruler of Umuoparaozara autonomous community, Eze S.N. Ubani and the community’s Traditional Prime Minister, Luke Ifeanacho, said the challenging security situation across the country informed the community ‘s decision.
Eze Ubani and Traditional Prime Minister Luke Ifeanacho, who were represented by Innocent Onyekwere, said the community policing initiative would be used to safeguard its environment.
The Umuoparaozara community leaders explained that it resolved to comb its forests following intelligence reports that criminal elements, including bandits, hoodlums and other suspected criminals, could be using the bushes as hideouts.
According to them, the operation, which covered forests stretching across different parts of the community, marked the beginning of what would become a sustained and regular security exercise.
The Abia community stressed that security should not be left solely in the hands of the military, police and other security agencies, insisting that community policing, family vigilance and individual responsibility remain critical in tackling emerging security challenges in the country.
They urged residents to remain alert, monitor suspicious movements within their surroundings and promptly report any unusual activities to community leaders, traditional rulers or relevant security agencies.
Speaking on behalf of the Umuoparaozara youths, Ifeme Celestine Chibuzo commended his fellow youths for their dedication promised their support for tight security in their land.
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