Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State encouraged the Nigeria Hunters and Forest Security Service operatives to refine their abilities in the fight against crime during Wednesday’s address.
The governor made this announcement while wrapping up a four-day capacity training session held at the 72 Special Forces Battalion in Makurdi, the capital of the state.
Alia stressed the need for operatives to be conspicuous and complement the efforts of other security agencies in the fight against crime, underscoring the importance of respecting the human rights of law-abiding citizens in the execution of their duties.
Dispelling misconceptions, he stated unequivocally that the state was now characterized by a relative sense of peace.
The governor said, ‘I am sure. that the capacity training you have received from men of the 72 Special Forces Battalion has sharpened your skills to face the task ahead.’
‘I also urge you to make yourselves visible and complement the efforts of other security agencies in crime fighting and above all, respect the human rights of law-abiding citizens.’
Read also: Alia Vows Not To Surrender Benue To Criminal Gangs
‘While expressing appreciation to the NHFSS for public safety, the governor noted that they have come to stay as they remain instrumental despite the challenges confronting the state.’
Alia, however, noted that there is relative peace in the state.
Meanwhile, the governor’s Special Adviser on security and internal matters, Joseph Har, lauded the active presence of the operatives in the state.
He said that the operatives had earlier arrested six persons for various crime offences which he said accounted for their usefulness in curbing crimes.
Earlier, the State Commander, NHFSS, Peter Ajonya, commended the battalion for the capacity training; and the governor, traditional rulers and all others, for their assistance and support given to the operatives.