Yobe Govt vows tougher measures against rising theft, housebreaking
Yobe State Security Council has resolved to step up patrols and introduce proactive measures to tackle rising cases of theft, burglary and related crimes across the state.
The decision followed the monthly security meeting chaired by the state Deputy Governor, Alhaji Idi Gubana, on Monday in Damaturu.
Commissioner of Police, Mr Emmanuel Ado, told newsmen after the meeting that although the state remained relatively calm, infractions such as housebreaking, burglary and petty crimes were still recorded in some communities.
He said the council directed security agencies to increase surveillance in Damaturu and other major towns to forestall criminal activities and deny miscreants freedom of action.
Ado added that the council also reviewed boundary disputes between Gujba and Gulani Local Government Areas, noting that culprits would be sanctioned in line with existing laws.
He said the activities of scrap metal dealers, popularly known as “Ajaputa”, had also become a threat to lives and property in the state.
According to him, the council approved measures to check the handling of classified materials and stolen vehicles often dismantled and sold as scrap.
He further disclosed that the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) had been directed to intensify enforcement against overloading of vehicles, which posed dangers to commuters.
The police commissioner commended the state government for its support to security agencies, including the planned provision of logistics vehicles to enhance operations.
Ado also appreciated residents for volunteering actionable intelligence that had contributed to the relatively peaceful atmosphere in the state.
“By all indications, Yobe remains one of the safest states in the country, judging by the crime index compared to other states,” he said.
Also speaking, Brig.-Gen. Dahiru Abdussalam (rtd), Security Adviser to Gov. Mai Mala Buni, said the crime index for the state showed a significant decline in homicide cases compared to the previous year.
He attributed the improvement to security agents engagements with communities on peaceful coexistence and discouraging residents from taking the law into their hands.
Abdussalam urged the public to always report grievances to security agencies for redress, rather than resorting to violence.
