BANDITRY IN KWARA: Ekiti fortifies boundary communities with joint security operations
As a result of bandit operations in Kwara and Kogi states, the Ekiti State government has intensified security measures across its boundary communities to prevent infiltration by hoodlums and kidnappers.
Recent bandit attacks have resulted in killings in some communities in Kwara and Kogi.
The chairman of Ajoni Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Michael Ogungbemi, was quoted to have said security operations and surveillance have been reinforced along communities linking Ekiti with Kwara and Kogi states.
Ogungbemi said the council had launched a local security initiative called ‘Operation Eborac’, to combat banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities around boundary communities in the LCDA.
He said ‘Operation Eborac’, comprising local hunters and vigilance groups, carry out 24-hour surveillance, intelligence gathering and patrol duties, to ensure safety of lives and property.
He added that Ajoni LCDA had also extended its security collaboration beyond Ekiti boundaries, partnering with conventional and non-state actors in neighbouring Kogi and Kwara states.
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The interstate patrols, he said, covered strategic boundary communities such as Ilemosho, Obbo-Ayegunle, Eruku, Koro, Ogbe and Koyan.
“With these measures in place, we have fortified our boundaries and territories against criminal incursion.
“Our joint patrols with the military, police, civil defence and local security networks have ensured a strong security presence across vulnerable points,” he said.
Assuring residents of safety, the chairman urged farmers, travelers, teachers and other residents in boundary communities such as Iyemero, Odo Owa, Irele and Ipao to go about their activities without fear.
He said there was no cause for alarm, as boundary areas and forest routes had been fortified to prevent infiltration by bandits or kidnappers.