In response to the escalating security concerns in certain regions of Kaduna State, the government has established a specialized joint task force focused on community policing and drug control.
The task force is aimed at curbing the escalating urban crime including; violent attacks, phone snatching, and the rise of gangsterism in the state.
While inaugurating the joint task force at the Kashim Ibrahim House, the Deputy Governor, Hadiza Balarabe disclosed that the violent situation is regrettable.
“The situation we have found ourselves in, though regrettable, can be surmounted with diligence, dedication and commitment on the part of all relevant stakeholders and community members.”
Hadiza explained that the task force is to be coordinated by the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, saying, it was composed of operatives from key federal and state security and enforcement agencies which include the Nigerian Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Army.
Others are the Nigerian Air Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nigerian Immigration Service, Nigerian Customs Service, Operation Fushin KADA and the Kaduna State Traffic Law Enforcement Authority (KASTLEA).
According to the Deputy Governor, the surge in urban crime is linked to various socio-economic pressures and urbanization, noting that while progress has been made against rural banditry, criminal activities are now shifting into cities.
“What we are beginning to experience amounts to a form of urban terrorism, and we should not allow it to take root,” she warned.
She noted that the task force has an unambiguous mandate which is to root out all forms of crime and drug abuse in Kaduna’s urban areas, as well as restore law and order, and rebuild public confidence in security institutions.
Emphasizing collaboration and civic responsibility, the Deputy Governor called on residents to support the task force’s work by reporting known hideouts of drug dealers, criminal gangs, and handlers of stolen goods.
“Our communities must reject a culture of silence. If you see something untoward in your neighbourhoods, please endeavour to say something,” she pleaded.
She also charged members of the security task force to approach their duties with integrity, vigilance, and full commitment to the rule of law, warning against any form of compromise.
“This is a sacred duty deserving of full dedication. Together, we shall reclaim our streets, restore peace, and give our young people better alternatives than crime and addiction,” she stated.
Our correspondent gathered that the Special Task Force will begin operations immediately, with inter-agency coordination and community engagement as key pillars of its strategy to make Kaduna State safer for all.