The Joint Task Force (JTF) in Anambra State has scaled up security ahead of the Biafra Day on Friday.
The Biafra-Day is a brainchild of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Movement for Actualisation of Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB).
The secessionist group had also ordered a sit-at-home to mark the day in the South East region.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said in a statement on Thursday in Awka that the police was ready to thwart any breakdown if law and order.
Ikenga said the police-led JTF comprising the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Army, Navy and other security agencies had taken over the strategic junctions across the state.
He said the cities on the watch list included Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi, Ihiala, Oraifite.
The police spokesperson said that the measure was to forestall any breach of peace and to enable residents of the state go about their normal businesses.
“Following the outcome of a closed-door meeting of the Anambra security service commanders ahead of an illegal sit-at-home on May 30 by some criminal elements, the Commissioner of Police (CP) in the state, Ikioye Orutugu has noted the increased motivation of the police and other security agencies to forestall breakdown of law and order.
“This s stemming from the cooperation and support received from the people of Anambra in joining voices to condemn any act that threatens our national peace.
“This collective effort has further strengthened the resolve of the security agencies to tackle threats to peace and security in the state, fostering a safer environment through community-police collaboration,” he said.
According to him, given the above scenario, the JTF has intensified patrols and taken over the strategic junctions in Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi, Ihiala, Oraifite and many other part of the state.
He said that the measure demonstrated the commitment of the security agencies to maintaining security and order in the state.
According to him, their heightened presence aims to deter criminal activities, reassure the public, and provide a safe environment for citizens and visitors alike.
Ikenga urged the public to call the command’s control room on 07039194332 for help in the case of any emergency or the PPRO on 08039334002.
“You can also call the various Area Commanders or Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) in your areas of concern,” he said.
Biafra-Day was set aside by the secessionist group to honour Biafra heroes.