Delta LG Launches Security Outfit to Tackle Crime

Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State has launched a 150-member community-based security outfit as part of efforts to proactively tackle insecurity and strengthen grassroots security across the area.

The security outfit comprises 150 indigenes drawn from communities across the local government area.

Speaking at the opening of a two-day security workshop, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the Director-General of Security Matters, Hon. David Tonwe, commended the council for the initiative, describing it as a practical strategy for addressing security challenges at the grassroots.

Tonwe urged other local government councils in the state to emulate Oshimili North’s proactive approach to community policing, stressing that peace and security are essential for sustainable development.

He called for stronger collaboration among traditional institutions, community leaders, residents and security agencies in combating crime .

In his welcome address, the Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, Hon. Innocent Esewezie, said security remained a top priority of his administration.

He disclosed that the council was putting in place a legal framework to make the security outfit a permanent institution.

According to him, members of the outfit will receive monthly stipends from the local government, while plans have also been concluded to integrate them into the council’s  payment roll for sustainable funding.

Esewezie further revealed that members of the outfit have been enrolled in the Delta State Contributory Health Scheme, while arrangements are underway to secure life insurance cover to boost their welfare and morale.

He said the personnel, selected based on integrity and good character, would be deployed to communities across the local government area to work closely with institutional Security agencies in safeguard  forests and communities.

The chairman vowed not to allow criminal activities to thrive in Oshimili North, noting that the initiative was designed to protect lives and property through proactive security measures.

The highpoint of the event was  the presentation of operational motorcycles, drones, rain boots, bulletproof vests and other security gadgets to enhance the outfit’s operational capacity.