‘Don’t harass innocent civilians, they’re not the enemy’ — commander warns troops

 

Chukwuemeka Okonkwo, commander of the special task force, operation safe haven, has warned troops to desist from molesting innocent civilians but go after criminals.

 

Operation safe haven was set up to maintain peace in Plateau state.

 

Okonkwo spoke at the inauguration of a special operation code-named “Hakorin Damisa” on Saturday in Bassa local government area of the state.

 

He said the special operation, which would last for four days, was aimed at addressing and reducing the rising spate of killings in parts of Bassa and Riyom local government areas.

The commander, who charged the troops to be professional in their conduct, urged them to ensure that isolated killings, attacks and counter-attacks, armed robberies, kidnappings, banditry, and other criminal acts were drastically reduced.

 

“You are here to dominate, neutralise the bad guys and stop all forms of insecurity in this area, “Okonkwo said.

 

“Do not harass innocent civilians, they are not the enemy. Neither Irigwe nor Fulani are the enemies, the criminals are the enemies, so go after them.

 

“You must be professional in your conduct and operate within the ambit of the law. I want results, not excuses. So, ensure you dominate and stop the killings.”