The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has donated six gunboats to the Rivers State Police Command to strengthen security on waterways.
The launching exercise took place on Tuesday, at Abonnema Wharf.
Representing the IGP, Deputy Inspector General of Police Operations (DIG), Ali Ali, emphasised that the boats must be strictly used for security purposes and not for private protection services.
“the IGP office was inundated with complaints from people of Bonny complaining of sea piracy armed robbery along the waterways,” Ali stated.
This came following several attacks on the waterways.
He stressed that a safer environment would attract investors, create jobs, and boost the economy.
“The Nigerian marine domain is a major contributor to economy of the nation. For effective policing of this area, there is need for visibility patrol and apprehension of criminals, hence the donation of the gunboats,” he added.
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Ali urged the marine unit to maintain the equipment properly and use them responsibly. “These equipments is not to be deployed for private security guard, is to combat insecurity on waterways, not to make money for individuals at the expense of the safety of the general publiv,” he warned.
Representing Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Secretary to the State Government, Tammy Danagogo, expressed appreciation for the donation.
He acknowledged the police’s efforts in maintaining law and order and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to security.
“We extend our heart felt gratitude to the IGP and President who enabled him,” Danagogo stated.
The Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), Zone 16, Yenagoa, Adebola Hamzat, described the initiative as a major step in improving security beyond land operations.
Rivers State Commissioner of Police (CP), Olugbenga Adepoju, also acknowledged the challenges faced on the waterways and assured the public that the boats would be used effectively to combat crime.
