The police in Benue State on Thursday warned against the use of knockouts and fireworks as residents prepare for the yuletide season.
State Commissioner of Police, George Chuku, also ordered the deployment of police officers across the state in readiness for Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Chuku warned all officers to ensure the security of lives and property within their areas of responsibility, stressing the need for them to ensure they secure all entry and exit routes as well as carry out intensive motorised patrols of government facilities, churches, parks, and densely populated areas where people go to celebrate.
He further called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, guidance, and parents to warn their children/ wards and faithful to refrain from ill practices.
The police commissioner added that groups displaying masquerades are advised to be very careful so that they won’t infringe on other people’s rights.
He further explained that the villagers felt abandoned and had no one to turn to except God.
When contacted, the state Police Command Public Relations Officer, ASP Mansir Hassan, promised to communicate with the Divisional Police Officer from the area for details but was yet to call back at the time of filing the report.
