Abia State government has reacted to rumours circulating in the social media purporting that the state government has demolished a section of the Lokpanta Cattle Market known as “Igbo quarters”, stating that the demolished areas were shanties and brothels where criminal elements hide and unleash mayhem on innocent citizens.
A statement signed by the State Commissioner for Homeland Security, Mr Sopuruchi Bekee revealed that the demolition was carried out by security agents and representatives of the government of Abia State based on verified information that criminals are using the place as launching pad to attack and kidnap citizens.
Full text of the statement reads: “Our attention has been drawn to videos circulating on social media purporting to be demolished “Igbo quarters” at Lokpanta Cattle Market and we wish to state the facts as follows:
1. “The demolished areas are shanties and brothels where criminal elements hide and from where they attack unsuspecting citizens.
2. “We recently arrested a kidnapper who is a member of the gang terrorizing travellers around the area.
3. “For the avoidance of doubt, the demolition was carried out by security agents and representatives of the government of Abia State based on verified information that criminals are using the place as launching pad to attack and kidnap citizens.
4.” Our ongoing security operations within that axis are aimed at rooting out criminal elements and no stone will be left unturned until our aim is achieved.
5. “We appreciate the support of citizens and residents of the area who are providing needed information and wish to assure that in no time, we will totally dominate the area to ensure security of lives and property”.
Uche Nwosu is a two time Shell Petroleum PLC award winner in the year 2000;
He won the Shell Award on Investigative Journalism and Environmental Cleanliness.
