Makurdi – Police in Benue on Friday said they had deployed 3,325 personnel on special duty across the state for the Easter celebration.
Spokesman of the command, Mr Moses Yamu, an Assistant Superintendent of Police, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Makurdi that the measure was to ensure security of lives and property during the period.
He said the figure did not include personnel on essential task force duties in the state.
Yamu said that some of the personnel were posted to churches and other places of worship.
He said that the command had embarked on “Operation Show of Force” to demonstrate its readiness to combat crime and ensure peaceful celebration during the period.
He warned mischief makers to stay away from public places or risk arrest.
“We are ready to deal decisively with mischief makers; anybody planning to cause problems should have a rethink because our men are ready for them.”
He advised the people to go about their lawful businesses without fear of harassment or intimidation, saying “the police will protect you”.
