Abia State Government has given reason for the the recent demolition of shanties at a section of the Lokpanta cattle market, Umunneochi LGA, saying the move is to dislodge criminals who have turned the area into a hideout to perpetuate criminal activities.
The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Dr Eze Chikamnayo stated this while briefing newsmen on the outcome of the State Executive Council Meeting held at Government House Umuahia.
Chikamnayo said the demolition was to ensure that those who terrorize the communities have no hiding place adding that the action was not to witch-hunt anyone.
He said: “The misconception we had wherein since people went on social media to say that the demolition of structures at the cattle market in Umunneochi was an exercise carried out in an adverse manner.
“From 1999 when the cattle market was established, the government at that time made it clear that the environment must not be converted to a residential environment but should be for strict business purposes to ensure it is not abused.
“In the last few months there has been an upscale in the incidences of kidnapping, terrorism, armed robbery and banditry around Umunneochi and the security agencies swung into action and discovered that terrorists use those shanties at the cattle market as a hideout after perpetuating crimes.
“No responsibly government will fold it’s hands and watch a few disgruntled elements convert a section of its land to engage in nefarious activities”.
Chikamnayo disclosed that the state government is at present setting up about Eight check points within the Umunneochi which would be manned by a combined team of security agencies to ensure that there is no hiding place for criminal elements in the state.
The information Commissioner blamed the recent upsurge in crime in the state to the presence of criminal elements dislodged in the ongoing flush out by security agencies within neighboring states.
He warned that any property where terrorists and other criminal elements are found, would be demolished.
Chikamnayo who reiterated that the Abia state government is working tirelessly to reduce the incidences of crime in the state urged communities to take ownership of security in their localities.
He commended security agencies in Abia State for being alive to their responsibilities of protecting lives and properties of residents and citizens alike.
