By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Mr Aderemi Adeoye, Monday, secured the partnership of tricycle operators otherwise known as Keke drivers for effective crimes detection, prevention and security of lives and properties of the citizenry.
Adeoye earlier made the request when over 600 members of Anambra Keke Drivers forum (AKDF), an official and only recognised forum or association for tricycle operators in Anambra State, paid him solidarity visit at the command's headquarters, Amawbia, Awka South LGA.
He explained that the partnership was necessary because tricycle operators were major stakeholders in transport system especially at the hinterlands, as they convey all kinds of persons (passengers) to streets, villages and other destinations due to the nature of their jobs.
According to him, sometimes criminals equally rob tricycle operators, as well as use tricycles to perpetrate crimes and other vices just to dent the image of the genuine operators.
He, therefore requested for their kind support in presenting information that could lead to crimes detention and prevention, even as he assured the tricycle drivers and other law abiding citizens of adequate protection as long as they keep to the rules.
" I want you to support the police because we are here to serve you and all the members of the society. Provide us with the necessary information you have that can lead to fish and flush out criminals.
" We will keep protecting you against touts and criminals. Just remain a law abiding citizen and police will help in providing enabling environment for you to thrive in all your endeavours," he added.
Earlier speaking, the Coordinator, AKDF, Comrade Osita Obi, explained that the visit was necessary to commend the police commissioner and his team for drastically reducing crime, especially cultism to a barest minimum since he took over.
Obi, while described Aderemi as a fine, respectful and responsible officer of the law, noted that under him, officers were equally behaving responsibly, just as criminals were on the run.
He urged him to sustain the tempo as Keke operators were ready to support him and the command to rid Anambra State of hoodlums operating under any disguise.