IG deploys 5,000 policemen for Bayelsa governorship re-run election

The Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr Solomon Arase has deployed over 5,000 policemen for the Nov. 9 Bayelsa governorship Supplementary election in seven Local Government Areas.

This is contained in statement issued by the Force spokesperson, Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police, ACP Olabisi Kolawole, in Abuja on Wednesday.

It said that adequate security logistics and manpower have been strategically deployed to achieve a most conducive electioneering atmosphere.

The statement said that a Deputy Inspector-General of Police had also been deployed to supervise security arrangements during the election.

It stated that he would be assisted by an Assistant Inspector-General of Police and three Commissioners of Police.

The statement said that extensive security operations had began in the state, including the deployment of detectives and surveillance helicopters for aerial patrols.

It said that gunboats and speed boats would complement the Police Marine Unit to convey security personnel and election materials to riverine communities.

The statement said that armed personnel from Police Mobile Force, Special Protection Unit as well as Counter Terrorism Unit were on ground to support the ongoing security operations in the State.

It stated that the I-G had placed a ban on movements in and out of the LGAs where elections would hold with effect from 6 a.m. to 6p.m. on the day of the election.

The statement said that the measure was to restrict the influx and movement of undesirable and criminal elements in and out of the affected Local Government Areas before and during the election.

It enjoined the citizens to come out enmasse to exercise their civic right, as the Police, assisted by other security agencies, would provide adequate security for them.

The statement advised them to shun violence and all forms of thuggery, as the full weight of the law would take its course on anyone apprehended.

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It regretted any inconveniences that road users and the general public may suffer as a result of this restriction.