IGP Egbetokun expresses concern over Ambazonian Boys in Cross River, speaks to deputy governor
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has expressed worry over operations linked to groups like the Ambazonian Boys, a group known to be leading an armed insurrection against the Cameroonian government from Cross River State.
These concerns were communicated to the deputy governor, Peter Odey, by Assistant IGP in charge of Border Patrol, Banji Lawal, during his visit on Thursday, July 18.
Lawal said the IGP had directed a reinforcement of security at certain border points in the state due to the insurgents’ activities and other cross-border crimes.
The AIG also explained that his visit was part of ongoing efforts to fortify border security, foster cooperation between all law enforcement agencies, and ensure a safer environment for everyone, stressing the main objective of the visit was to acquaint the Deputy Governor with the operations of the Nigerian Police Border Patrol Unit, which is focused on combating arms trafficking and reducing cross-border crime.
Accompanied by the Cross River State Police Commissioner, CP Gyogon Grimah, and other senior officers, the AIG highlighted the unit’s efforts in collaboration with police in neighboring countries to curb the influx of arms and ammunition, which is crucial for stemming criminal activities.
Welcoming the AIG’s team, Odey emphasized the challenges faced by the state, which boasts a significant number of international and inter-state boundaries often exposed to hostile neighbors.
While expressing gratitude for the collaborative efforts of the police and other security agencies in the protection of lives and property of the people in the affected areas of the state, Odey recounted recent inter-community conflicts, including the tragic Yache-Benue boundary dispute that resulted from a tenant’s failure to fulfill the obligation of providing a goat to the landlord community, claiming 14 lives.
Odey opined that while no community can be crime-free, the Senator Prince Bassey Otu-led administration was committed to prioritizing peace and security for all residents, especially in the border areas of the state.
A few days ago, the Cameroon Consul, His Excellency Onana Patrice, visited the AIG in charge of Zone Six, Jonathan Towuru, and alleged that the Ambazonian fighters were using their kith and kin in Cross River State to smuggle arms into Cameroon.
In February, there were media reports that the Ambazonian Boys invaded communities in Obanliku LGA and occupied Belegete community for over two weeks, where they abducted natives, raped women, burnt houses, and exacted tolls from Nigerians living there.
