The new Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Mr. Dan Bature, said he would build on the successes recorded by his predecessor, AIG Tunde Ogunsakin. He promised to ensure that the state was free of crime: “I am going to ensure constant patrol of the major roads as a way of keeping criminals at bay.
“We are going to confront headlong the twin problems of kidnapping and armed robbery. Kidnappers and armed robbers will have no space to operate in the state.”
Bature promised to ensure that his officers especially the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), and the Anti-Kidnapping Unit flush out criminals from their hideouts. He called on the residents to cooperate with the police in the task ahead: “The command will put efforts together in ensuring that residents of the state can sleep with their eyes closed.”
He said he was not in the state to favour any politician or any political party but to carry out the constitutional duty of protecting life and property: “Security is not only for the police but everyone must be involved.”
Bature said the police would cooperate with other security agencies in the task of eliminating crimes in the state. He sought the cooperation of all stakeholders including traditional rulers and the religious leaders in ensuring peace, tasking them in ensuring peace in their domains.
He warned politicians to stay clear of any act that could bring violence: “Politicians must learn how to play the game according to the rule as we are approaching 2015 general elections. They must call on their supporters not to cause chaos or disturb the peace of the state.”
Speaking when he visited Ibaa in Ahoada West Local Government Area, Bature expressed resolve to ensure that the perpetrators of violent clashes that rocked the town on Sunday, September 14, 2014 were brought to book:
“On Sunday afternoon, the command received a situation report of violence that erupted in Ibaa town leaving several casualties. The Ibaa Divisional Police Officer immediately mobilised men to the scene to restore order and calmness.”
His visit on Monday, September 15, was a consolidation of police effort and attempt to get first-hand information on the nature and causes of the clash.
It was gathered that the clash occurred between two rival cult groups; Icelanders and Greenlanders. The cause of the mayhem bordered on a longstanding chieftaincy tussle within the community and a complex web of other politically-motivated issues.
A total of 10 deaths were recorded which included two vigilante members and the village town crier. Investigations intensified with five suspects arrested by the Police.
The CP stated that the occurrence was an extremely sad one and extended his condolences to affected families and the people of Ibaa community. He warned criminals to embrace civility or feel the toughness of a motivated Police:
“The hand of law enforcement is never short. It will get to all those who will not embrace peace and order. My men are motivated and will work tirelessly to guarantee a crime free society.”

New Rivers CP confronts kidnappers, robbers