The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, has ordered increased security surveillance across forests, rural communities and major access routes in the state as part of efforts to tackle kidnapping and other violent crimes.
Oyeniyi gave the directive during a strategic security meeting held at the Delta State Police Command headquarters on Wednesday in Asaba, where patrol officers from police divisions across the state reviewed measures to strengthen community policing and intelligence-driven operations.
The police commissioner directed patrol teams, vigilante groups, forest guards and other recognised community security outfits to improve intelligence gathering and maintain regular patrols in areas identified as possible hideouts or escape routes for criminals.
According to Oyeniyi, criminals often take advantage of bush paths, waterways, railway corridors and isolated roads to carry out kidnapping, armed robbery and other unlawful activities.
He stressed the need for closer monitoring of such locations to prevent criminal operations.
The commissioner acknowledged the contributions of vigilante groups and community-based security organisations in supporting security efforts across Delta State, but warned that their activities must remain within the law and operate in partnership with the Nigeria Police Force.
He directed that all local security groups should work under the supervision of relevant Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) to ensure proper coordination, accountability and effective implementation of community policing strategies.
Oyeniyi said lasting security could only be achieved through cooperation between the police, traditional institutions, community leaders and legitimate security stakeholders, supported by continuous information sharing.
The police chief also cautioned against abuses by local security groups, warning members against unlawful arrests, torture, inhuman treatment of suspects or using security platforms to settle personal disagreements and political disputes.
He ordered that anyone arrested by vigilante or forest guard groups must be handed over immediately to the nearest police station for proper investigation and possible prosecution in line with the law.
The commissioner further charged leaders of community security outfits to ensure discipline among their members, identify criminal elements within their ranks and avoid protecting individuals involved in illegal activities.
Reaffirming the command’s commitment to improving grassroots security, Oyeniyi said the police would continue to collaborate with genuine community security partners while maintaining respect for legal procedures.
He added that similar engagements would be extended to local government areas across the state to strengthen coordination, improve intelligence networks and enhance collective efforts to protect lives and property.
