By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Following the increasing criminal activities within the boundaries of Anambra and Enugu states, the two state Police Commands on Monday launched a joint interstate border patrol operation in the region.

This move was prompted by the series of reported cases involving kidnappers and gunmen engaged in interstate and trans-border criminal activities.

The Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, in a statement made available to journalists in Awka said the meeting was in line with the enhanced policing guidelines of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP.

He said: "The Commissioners of Police from both states, CP Ikioye Orutugu of Anambra and CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa of Enugu, met to devise operational strategies aimed at proactively addressing security challenges in the two neighboring states.

"The Commissioners identified the infiltration of criminals between the states as a major security issue that requires immediate attention to combat violent crimes and the activities of subversive criminal elements.

"As a result, they pledged to collaborate by sharing intelligence and pooling operational resources to address violent crime at the borders and within their respective states.

"The Commissioners reiterated their commitment to decisively combat all forms of crime and criminality in both states, aiming to ensure maximum public security and safety.?

According to Ikenga, the Commissioners in unison warned criminals operating in the two states to either repent or face the full force of the law.

The meeting which was held at the Anambra State Police Command in Amawbia was attended by Deputy and Assistant Police Commissioners from both states.

The meeting ended with a far-reaching plans to strengthen security operations at major flashpoints in both states.