By Kamsi Anayo, Awka
Nigeria Army, has urged media cooperation and support for its operation against the raging insecurity in Anambra state.
Col. Adamu Muhammad, Commander, 302 Artillery Regiment (General Support), Onitsha, Anambra state made the call when some journalists paid him a courtesy visit in his office on Friday.
He said efficient and good working synergies by both bodies in the information gathering and disemination would help reduce insecurity in the state.
He urged the citizens of the state to stop working as informats to the criminal elements who had continued to kidnap, kill and collected ransoms from unsuspecting Nigerians.
“We are ready with other security agencies to reduce insecurity in the state. We want your support and cooperation when there is insecurity problem,” Muhammad said.
According to him, the road linking Ihiala in Anambra state with Orlu in Imo state which is temporarily blocked have become a flash-point for the criminal elements, and one of the most dangerous area in South East.
“This is where some journalists travelling to Uyo, Akwa-Ibom state this month for the Nigeria-Libya AFCON qualifier were attacked by suspected Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)and Eastern Security Network (ESN) groups.
“The journalists, traveling in a chartered bus, were ambushed at Iseke Community, Ihiala, after detouring into Imo state.
“The attack, suspected to be orchestrated by anti-state elements, resulted in the tragic death of a police officer and some of the journalists.
“The Army from Onitsha responded quickly after being alerted to the situation. Their prompt action led to the rescue of six victims, with four more freed shortly after. However, two persons are still missing as of the latest reports, though we are continuing our operations to locate them.
“The operation was supported with technical and logistics assistance from the 34 Artillery Brigade, Owerri and 82 Division Enugu, ensuring the troops were well-equipped to handle the crisis. The search for the remaining victims continues,” he affirmed.
He appreciated the supports and encouragements of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division, Enugu in the battle against insecurity in Anambra state.
He urged local communities to remain vigilant, and report any suspicious activities to security agencies.
“Security is everyone’s responsibility,” he added.
Muhammad commended the state governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo for the supports to the security agencies to succeed in its operations in the state.
