The Imo State Government has launched a security crackdown in Owerri to tackle rising cases of robbery, vandalism, gangsterism, prostitution, and drug peddling.
This was announced in a public statement signed on Tuesday by Nze Chinasa Nwaneri, Special Adviser to Governor Hope Uzodimma on Monitoring and Compliance.
“We cannot tolerate these acts of lawlessness any longer,” Nwaneri stated. “The government is committed to protecting the lives and property of its citizens, and we will deploy all necessary resources to restore order and sanity in Owerri metropolis.”
The government identified areas like Douglas Road, Hospital Junction, and Arugo Park as hotspots for criminal activities. Nwaneri also raised concerns about the use of motorcycles, commonly known as *Okada*, in committing crimes, as well as unauthorized road digging and the sale of illegal drugs.
He reminded residents that the ban on *Okada* for commercial transportation, which was put in place by the Ohakim administration in 2008, is still in effect.
Nwaneri urged the public to support security agencies in fighting crime. “We must work together to create a safer and more secure Imo State,” he said. “The days of lawlessness are over, and we will not tolerate any form of criminality in our state.”
He warned that the announcement serves as a final notice to those involved in illegal activities, stressing that the government would take strong action against offenders.
“Security forces have been put on high alert, and a crackdown on criminal elements is set to commence immediately,” Nwaneri added.
