The Rivers State Police Command has welcomed a new Commissioner of Police, who has pledged to tackle the state’s unique security challenges head-on.
In his first press briefing, Commissioner of Police Mustapha Mohammed Bala said he is assuming office with a clear mandate of zero tolerance for corruption and unprofessional conduct within the force.
Bala emphasized that his leadership will not tolerate any form of corruption, misconduct, or abuse of power by police officers.
The new police boss emphasized the importance of collaboration between the police, the press, and the public in maintaining law and order.
The new Commissioner also identified cultism and youth violence as major challenges facing the state.
To address this, he plans to intensify efforts in curbing cult-related activities and work with youth groups, religious bodies, and civil society organizations to promote peace, education, and alternative livelihoods for youths.
He added that Oil theft and environmental crimes will also be tackled head-on through inter-agency cooperation.
He said: “I am aware that Rivers State, being one of the nation’s economic hubs, faces unique security challenges. From incidents of kidnapping, cultism, armed robbery, and oil bunkering to communal clashes and violent crimes, and more recently crises emanating from political interests, the complexities of maintaining law and order here require a proactive and strategic approach.
“My priority task is to swiftly restore calm in the respective Local Government Areas where pockets of violence and arson attacks have been present, and my commitment is to work collaboratively with the state and non-state actors as well as all critical stakeholders to address these challenges head-on.”
The Commissioner emphasized the importance of collaboration between the police, the press, and the public in maintaining law and order.
Bala announced that the Command will collaborate with the Nigerian Navy, Army, Department of State Services (DSS), NSCDC, and other relevant agencies to dismantle networks responsible for these crimes and bring perpetrators to justice.
To enhance public safety, Bala promised improved response times to distress calls and increased police visibility, especially in crime-prone areas, regular patrols and special tactical teams will be deployed as needed.
“No police force can operate effectively in isolation. I therefore call on the people of Rivers State—traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, the media, religious organizations, and every law-abiding citizen—to cooperate with the police in our efforts to rid the state of crime and violence. Security is a collective responsibility, and I am confident that, working together, we can create a safer and more secure Rivers State.”