By IMELDA OSAYANDE
BENIN- The Nigerian Army on Tuesday in Ehor, Edo, inaugurated “Operation Still Water II” to consolidate on its effort to wipe out criminal activities in the area.
Brig.-Gen. Danladi Ndahi, Commander, 4 Brigade Headquarters, Benin, in his opening remarks at the ceremony, said the three months exercise was intended to rid Edo of prevailing crimes.
Ndahi said the crimes included kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism, farmers/herders clash, child trafficking, communal clashes, drug peddling and oil bunkering.
According to him, the second phase of the operation would consolidate on the gains of the first one, carried out in 2021.
“It is also tailored towards enhancing protection of innocent and law abiding citizens and building confidence amongst the civil populace in the state during the ember months.
“The exercise will be conducted in collaboration with other security agencies who will perform their statutory roles.
“It is believed that the exercise will promote a conducive environment for businesses and other socio-economic activities for which the state is known to thrive.”
Ndahi added, that with the exercise, civil-military relations in Edo, would be fostered.
He noted, however, that the intensive operation would be carried out in collaboration with stakeholders in the state, particularly other sister security agencies.
The Enogie of Ehor, Dr David Igiehon, said the community and other adjoining communities were happy with the presence of the military officers in the area.
Igiehon noted that since their coming, the rate of crimes, particularly kidnapping, army robbery had reduced in the area.
The location of Army forward base in the village, he said, had brought development to the environment.
The traditional chief said that the people appreciated the effort of the officers and would extend necessary support for more successful operation during the operation. (NAN)