A top police official has called for stronger cooperation among security agencies across the South-East. DIG Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, who oversees the region's policing operations, made the appeal during a working visit to Imo State this week.
Onwuemelie arrived at the State Police Command headquarters in Owerri on an inspection tour. He was received by Commissioner of Police Audu Garba Bosso and senior command officials.
The visit forms part of a broader assessment of the South-East zone ordered by Inspector-General Olatunji Rilwan Disu. It focuses on evaluating current security operations and identifying gaps.
Speaking to officers, Onwuemelie stressed the importance of professionalism and discipline in policing. He told them intelligence-led operations remain critical to fighting crime effectively.
"Protecting lives and property is your constitutional duty," he noted. Officers must stay committed to this responsibility, he added.
He commended the Imo command for its operational efforts in recent months. The force, he said, has worked hard to keep residents safe.
Onwuemelie emphasized that police alone cannot secure the region. Working with traditional rulers, community leaders and government institutions is essential, he stressed.
"Collective responsibility is key to solving today's security challenges," according to the DIG. He urged continuous collaboration across all sectors.
Modern technology will play a bigger role going forward. Onwuemelie highlighted the police force's plans to deploy artificial intelligence, drones and other innovations.
These tools will improve intelligence gathering and surveillance operations. They'll also strengthen proactive policing efforts, he explained.
As part of his Imo itinerary, Onwuemelie visited Eze Imo, C.C. Okeke.
He sought the traditional institution's continued partnership in maintaining peace.
The monarch acknowledged the police visit warmly. He reaffirmed traditional rulers' commitment to supporting security agencies statewide.
Bosso, the state commissioner, thanked Onwuemelie for coming. He assured residents that the command will keep coordinating with other agencies to maintain safety.
"The police remain devoted to creating a secure environment for all," Bosso said. Working together with stakeholders, he noted, ensures better outcomes.
