Abia will not serve as safe haven for criminal elements - New CP

Abia State's new Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, has declared that the state will no longer be a haven for criminal elements. During his first briefing with senior officers, Afolabi vowed to lead an accountable, professional, and intelligence-driven police force dedicated to protecting the lives and property of all residents.

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to serve with integrity, enforce the law without fear or favour, and safeguard the lives and property of every resident.

Afolabi stated his mission is to implement the Inspector-General of Police's strategic re-engineering agenda, with the IGP's vision serving as the operational roadmap. He issued a stern warning against extortion, corruption, and any behavior that could damage the command's reputation, stressing that accountability and professionalism are paramount. Intelligence-led policing will be the cornerstone of the command's strategy, with sustained training for officers in areas like intelligence gathering, investigations, and human rights.

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My mission is to effectively drive, implement, and practicalise the ongoing strategic re-engineering agenda of the Inspector-General of Police. The IGP’s vision remains our operational roadmap.

The Commissioner also emphasized the importance of continuous professional development and mentoring to ensure officers are well-equipped. He urged officers to strengthen community relations and collaborate with sister security agencies, highlighting that public trust is crucial for enhancing security. While officers must be professional and civil, Afolabi cautioned that this should not be mistaken for weakness, as they must remain firm and courageous in their duties. Strict enforcement of traffic laws was also directed, with traffic officers leading coordination efforts. Afolabi commended Governor Alex Otti's efforts in advancing development and security and reaffirmed the command's commitment to inter-agency collaboration. He concluded by assuring residents of intensified, intelligence-driven policing to combat crime and bolster public confidence.

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While officers are expected to be professional and civil in their conduct, such disposition must not be misconstrued as weakness. Officers must remain firm, disciplined, and courageous in the lawful execution of their duties.