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🇳🇬 Nigeria /Crime & Justice

Abia council moves against drug abuse, insecurity

From The Punch · () English

Summarized by DistantNews. Read the original for the full story.

At a glance

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  • The Mayor of Umuahia South Local Government Area, Philip Enwereuzo, is intensifying efforts with security agencies to combat drug abuse and insecurity.
  • New youth empowerment programs have been launched to foster peace and reduce crime within the council area.
  • The local government is collaborating with various security forces and has established a vigilante group to enhance rapid response to threats.

The administration of Umuahia South Local Government Area is taking a proactive stance against drug abuse and insecurity, according to Mayor Philip Enwereuzo. He revealed that his office is strengthening collaborations with national security agencies to tackle these persistent challenges within the region.

We cannot afford to be complacent. We must continue to take the necessary steps to ensure total safety and security for our people.

· Philip EnwereuzoEmphasizing the need for continued vigilance despite relative peace in the area.

To foster a more peaceful environment and curb criminal activities, the local council has introduced new youth empowerment initiatives. These programs aim to provide constructive opportunities for young people, thereby reducing their susceptibility to crime and drug-related issues. Enwereuzo emphasized that while insecurity is a nationwide concern, Umuahia South and Abia State are currently experiencing relative peace, a situation he stressed the need to maintain through continuous vigilance.

Anywhere we receive information about a threat, we act immediately to nip it in the bud.

· Philip EnwereuzoDescribing the rapid response mechanism of the local security apparatus.

The local government is working closely with Operation Crush, the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force. This multi-agency approach is crucial for protecting lives and property. Additionally, the Umuahia South Vigilante Group has been established to bolster security operations and ensure swift responses to intelligence reports. "Anywhere we receive information about a threat, we act immediately to nip it in the bud," the mayor stated.

Those arrested will be charged to court and the law will take its full course. This should serve as a deterrent to anyone considering criminal activity in this zone.

· Philip EnwereuzoStating the consequences for individuals involved in criminal activities.

Enwereuzo highlighted the effectiveness of these measures by citing a recent kidnapping incident. Prompt intervention by the vigilante group, in conjunction with state and federal security agencies, led to arrests. Those apprehended will face legal consequences, serving as a deterrent to potential offenders. The mayor also reiterated the council's firm opposition to drug abuse and trafficking, noting the demolition of a notorious drug den and ongoing sensitisation campaigns in schools and on radio in partnership with the NDLEA and community stakeholders. The TechRise program, offering training in ICT and AI, currently has over 50 young participants, with a new cohort recently starting.

Hard drugs have ruined many vibrant lives, and the government frowns on it. Drug cartels may be strong, but the government is stronger.

· Philip EnwereuzoExpressing the government's strong stance against drug abuse and trafficking.
About this summary

Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.

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