The Imo State Police Command on Monday said it is collaborating  with other sister security, military and para-military agencies to embark on a 15-day show of force across the 27 LGAs of the State.


In addition the police and sister agencies are collaborating in the  deployment of security measures at strategic points to prevent  breakdown of law and order ahead the August 1 nationwide protest.


In a press release, the Police Public Relations Officer ACP, Henry Okoye, said Security Operatives from the Police, Armed Forces, and other security agencies have been strategically deployed and tasked to carry out a 15-day show of force and confidence-building patrol across the 27 LGAs of the State to ensure public safety and deter miscreants from causing any break down of law and order.


The PPRO, added  that the Detectives of the State Intelligence Department have also been deployed on covert intelligence gathering to monitor the situation surrounding the planned mass protest tagged "EndBadGovernanceInNigeriaProtest".


The PPRO also explained that the massive deployment of security operatives is not meant to intimidate the civil populace but to reassure them that the security and para-military agencies in the state are working in synergy to ensure public safety and strengthen public confidence that law and order is maintained, and for citizens to go about their lawful businesses without any fear or intimidation


The statement added that the Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma while addressing the operatives before the confidence-building exercise alongside the Commander 34 Artillery Brigade Obinze, tasked the operatives to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, respect for rule of law and fundamental human rights of citizens while ensuring public safety


The Imo CP admitted that citizens have the right to embark on peaceful protest in any democratic society but warned that violent protest is criminal and capable of leading to the destruction of lives and property just as he assured that the Command has deployed stringent security measures to prevent any form of civil unrest.


He enjoined residents to be security conscious and swiftly report any suspicious person seen or activity observed within their vicinity to the nearest Police Station.