Four policemen on way to Anambra poll shot dead

The police have deployed 28,000 officers and men in Anambra State for tomorrow’s governorship election.

This is in addition to Air force and naval personnel already deployed in the state.

Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) (Operations), Mr. Philemon Leha, who is the head of the security team to the state, confirmed the number of policemen on duty.

Yesterday at the office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), there was a marathon meeting of security chiefs with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) National Commissioners, and Resident Electoral Commissioners (REC’s) supervising the election.

Though, the outcome of the meeting was not made known to reporters, it was gathered that it dwelt on the importance of making the election free, fair and credible.

The meeting which started at about noon yesterday lasted till 3.45pm with security chiefs from the Police and the military. Officials of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) also attended.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Mohammed Abubakar while breaking down the deployments I the state, said 10 Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) had been deployed.

He said a Police Commissioner each would supervise the three senatorial zones assisted by a deputy commissioner and an assistant commisioner.

He said over 120 policemen would be deployed in each of the 21 local government areas in the state, while the areas believed to be volatile would have the presence of more men.

He said the Navy and the Air force would operate from the riverine areas. There will also be two helicopters for aerial surveillance on election day, the IG added.

He said: “If you break the law, we will break you; the security men are willing and ready for the election in Anambra State. If you do not have any business on election day; stay at home to avoid embarrassment.”

“The marine police, naval officers will take care of our water ways, there will be no room for manipulations, we shall all work together to make Anambra a safe and better place during and after the governorship election.”

Four policemen heading for Anambra State on election duties were shot dead by gunmen in Edo State.

It was gathered that the policemen, who were deployed from Osun state and travelling in a truck, came under fire at the Benin by-pass after which four of them were believed to have died.

It could not be ascertained whether the attackers were armed robbers or they deliberately attacked the policemen.

Details of the attack were also sketchy. Edo Police spokesman Emmanuel Eguavoen said he had not been briefed when our correspondent spoke to him on the telephone last night.

Source: The Nation