NEW YEAR: Kwara govt alerts residents of attack plan
Kwara State government on Wednesday warned residents to remain vigilant during the New Year celebrations and crossover church services, following intelligence reports of planned attacks on public infrastructure and other soft targets.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Commissioner for Communications, Mrs Bolanle Olukoju, the government advised citizens to avoid non-essential movements and large gatherings that could be targeted by criminal elements.
According to the statement, the advisory became necessary following security intelligence indicating that some “bad faith actors” were plotting to attack government facilities or public places in retaliation for recent losses suffered at the hands of security agencies.
“This advisory becomes necessary as intelligence reports show that some bad faith actors plan to hit government infrastructures or other soft targets to avenge recent losses they suffered” the statement read.
The government specifically called for heightened vigilance during crossover services and New Year celebrations, assuring residents that security agencies had been placed on alert to safeguard lives and property across the state.
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“The public is encouraged to exercise caution, avoid non-essential movements or large gatherings that may be targeted by kidnappers,” the statement added.
The government also urged members of the public to promptly report any suspicious activity, particularly unusual movements involving persons travelling in convoys of motorcycles.
Olukoju said the state government was working closely with security agencies to maintain peace and security during the festive period, while appealing to residents to cooperate with law enforcement authorities.
She reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of residents and called on citizens to remain calm but alert as they usher in the New Year.
“Citizens are advised to be vigilant, especially during the cross over services and the New Year holiday, while security forces will maintain their efforts to protect lives and property.
“Prompt report of unusual movements of persons on a convoy of motorcycles is encouraged,” the statement concluded.