The outgoing Commissioner of Police (CP) for Rivers State, Mustapha Bala, has officially handed over the leadership of the state command to his successor, Olubenga Adepoju.
The handover follows Bala’s promotion to Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) for Zone 6, Calabar.
At a press briefing held today at the Police Officers Mess, Old GRA, Port Harcourt, AIG Bala called on officers and stakeholders to prioritize peace and extend their unwavering support to the incoming leadership.
“I came in peace, I worked in peace, and I am leaving in peace,” he remarked, reflecting on his tenure with gratitude.
AIG Bala highlighted significant milestones achieved during his leadership, including the rescue of 13 underage pregnant girls and a kidnapped corps member, recovery of firearms, retrieval of stolen goods worth millions of naira, and clampdowns on oil theft and other criminal activities.
The new CP, Olubenga Adepoju, commended AIG Bala for his contributions to maintaining peace and order in Rivers State.
“On behalf of the officers and men of Rivers State, we thank you for your invaluable leadership and guidance,” Adepoju stated.
During the ceremony, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Bori, Khana Local Government Area, Olufemi Okanlawon, was recognized as the Best Performing Officer for November 2024.
His commendation stemmed from leading a successful operation that neutralized a notorious kidnapper and recovered firearms.
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In an interview with this reporter, Okanlawon expressed his joy at receiving the award, citing his commitment to combating crime as his primary motivation.
He urged parents to play their role in reducing criminal activities, stating, “I encourage parents to guide their children and discourage them from engaging in crime.
Below are the pictures from the event