The Anambra State Police Command has announced a statewide ban on the use of knockout bangers and other social explosives during the Christmas and New Year celebrations, as part of measures to ensure public safety and maintain law and order throughout the festive period.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Ikioye Orutugu, made the announcement on Wednesday in Awka during a press briefing held to highlight the command’s achievements and operational milestones over the course of the year. He explained that the ban was necessary to prevent avoidable injuries, panic and security breaches often associated with the misuse of fireworks and explosive devices during festive celebrations.
According to Orutugu, the police command has rolled out comprehensive security arrangements across the state, including increased patrols, intelligence led operations and collaboration with other security agencies. He urged residents and visitors to cooperate with law enforcement officers and strictly adhere to safety guidelines, emphasizing that the use of knockout substances and other fireworks remains illegal in Anambra State.
“As we enter the festive season, the command has deployed robust security measures to ensure residents and visitors enjoy a peaceful celebration. We urge the public to adhere to safety advisories, as the use of knockout substances and other social explosives remains prohibited in the state,” Orutugu said.
The police commissioner revealed that during the period under review, the command, working closely with other security agencies, rescued 35 kidnap victims across various parts of the state. He added that more than 300 suspects were arrested in connection with offences including armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, secessionist activities, rape and other violent crimes.
He further disclosed that the command recorded notable success in its prosecution efforts, securing convictions in several criminal cases. According to him, this has contributed to deterrence and improved public confidence in the justice system. Orutugu said over 2,000 arms and ammunition, including explosives and other dangerous weapons, were recovered during operations carried out by the police.
In addition, the command recovered more than 60 stolen vehicles and motorcycles, many of which have been returned to their rightful owners. He described the recoveries as evidence of the effectiveness of sustained patrols, intelligence gathering and community policing initiatives.
Orutugu expressed satisfaction with the gradual decline in crime rates across the state, attributing the improvement to strong collaboration between the Anambra State Government, security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders and residents. He noted that crime patterns fluctuated during the year due to prevailing socio economic challenges and evolving security dynamics nationwide, but said the command remained proactive in addressing emerging threats.
Among the key achievements of the police command, Orutugu highlighted the disruption of multiple kidnapping syndicates operating in several local government areas. He also said criminal hideouts were dismantled and identified black spots were cleared through consistent raids and visibility patrols.
The commissioner pointed to the gradual restoration of social life in areas previously affected by insecurity, such as Ihiala, where weddings, birthdays and other social events are now being held without fear of intimidation or harassment. He described this development as a significant indicator of improved security in the state.
Despite the successes recorded, Orutugu acknowledged that the command faced challenges during the year, including occasional resistance from suspected criminals, misinformation and non cooperation from some members of the public. He noted that these challenges have strengthened the command’s resolve to improve its strategies and operational effectiveness in the coming year.
The commissioner concluded by extending warm Christmas and New Year wishes to residents and visitors, assuring them of the police command’s continued commitment to proactive policing, the maintenance of law and order and the protection of lives and property across Anambra State throughout the festive season and beyond.
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