... CP reassures residents adequate security
Commissioner of Police in Imo State, Muhammed Berde has debunked that the popular Hausa Market located at Avu community in the Owerri West council of the state was attacked and burnt by unidentified hoodlums.
Barde who stated this why briefing journalists at the command's headquarters in Owerri, on Sunday, said that the market was gutted by fire and not burnt by criminals as being speculated especially in the social media.
The CP said the command has commenced investigation aimed at finding its remote cause and the estimate of damages recorded from fire incident.
He said " I invited you here this afternoon to clear some misleading reports making the rounds on social media alleging that, hoodlums attacked and burnt the popular Hausa Market at Avu. This is not true.
"For the purpose of clearity, I wish to inform you that, the incident that happened at the market was a fire outbreak that led to loss of properties. No life was lost in the inferno and it's under investigation and the outcome of our investigation will be made known to the public.
"I am pleased to inform you that, the Executive Governor of Imo State, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma has been informed and he has directed that arrangements be made for him to meet with those affected.
"I wish to reassure the general public of the Command’s committement in the protection of lives and property, and also advice them to disregard the video , as its the handiwork of mischief makers who wants to cause disaffection in the State."
The Imo police boss also used the opportunity to reassure residents of the state of the command's commitment in ensuring adequate security, adding that his men have been fully mobilized to fight unlawful activities of IPOB members and criminal elements in the state.
He said, "I want to use this medium to call on Imolites to disregard the illegal sit-at-home order and go about their lawful businesses without fear of molestation or attack.
"The Command and other security agencies have emplaced adequate security measures to checkmate any breach of peace and anyone found complicit will be made to face the full wrath of the law."
