Yuletide: Army launches operation golden down III in Abia to ‘flush out criminals’

The Nigerian Army has launched a new operation in Abia, codenamed Operation Golden Dawn III, to tackle security challenges in the state.

Alex Otti, governor of Abia was represented at the launch by Macdonald Uba, his special assistant on security, on Wednesday.

The event took place at the 14 Brigade Step-Up headquarters, Isuochi in Umunneochi LGA of the state.

Otti expressed confidence that the operation would assist in flushing out criminal elements “within the corners and holes” of the state.

He said the operation would further reduce crimes and criminality in the entire state during the festive period.

The governor advised officers to observe the laid-down rules of engagement and the army code of conduct.

“This is to avoid any action that may infringe on the rights of the citizens and the host community. We are aware that no meaningful development can take place in an atmosphere devoid of peace,” he said.

“May I assure the Nigerian army and other security agencies in Abia of our continued support within available resources, so as to enable them to carry out their constitutional responsibilities.”

Speaking earlier, Nsikak Edet, the commander of the 14 Brigade, Nigerian Army, said Operation Golden Dawn III is strategically tailored towards enhancing the security of residents and visitors to the state during the yuletide.

He said the exercise is in collaboration with other security agencies performing their statutory roles.

“We want to reassure residents, passers-by and visitors to Abia of their safety during the conduct of Exercise Golden Dawn III,” he said.

“It should be noted that the Exercise is not aimed at hurting innocent persons, but at protecting them.

“We, therefore, call on the peace-loving people of Abia, community leaders and everyone to provide us with useful information regarding persons who constitute a threat to public safety and security.”