The Kogi State Government has begun a clamp down on disbanded National Task Force operating illegally in the state.
The Director General, Kogi State Special Task Force on Illegal Smuggling of Fire Arms and Other Related Crimes Elder Friday Sani Makama disclosed this on Monday shortly after a strategic meeting with the Importers Association of Nigeria, (IMAN) Special Task Force.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, Makama said it has come to the notice of the agency that arms are being smuggled into Kogi State due to the illegal operation of the disbanded NAT force.
While charging IMAN to partner with the agency to stop illegal arms smuggling to Kogi State, Makama added that all those involved with the illegal act will be arrested and prosecuted.
” The NAT force has been disbanded by the Federal Government. But it has come to our notice that some disgruntled elements are operating in the name of NAT force extorting money from people and ensuring that arms are smuggled into Kogi State. We are going to put an end to this.
“With the mandate given to us by our amiable Governor, we are determined to ensure that those in possession of illegal arms, including the illegal operation of the disbanded NAT force are apprehended”.
While frowning at the impasse surrounding the operation of IMAN in Kogi State, Makama emphasised that, for the agency to achieve its mandate in the state, it was important to unite to rid the state of crimes and criminalities.
The Taskforce DG reminded the officials that Kogi State under Yahaya Bello remains committed to liberating the people from criminal elements, and warned that any individual no matter highly connected, illegally in possession of arms and ammunition will be arrested and prosecuted.
According to Makama, the task force is committed to succeeding on the mandate of the present administration, charging them to as a matter of urgency, begin the recovery of illegal arms across the 21 Local Government of Kogi State.
“If you want to achieve success, you must be diligent in your duties. It is no longer business as usual. We are committed to stopping the illegal smuggling of ammunition in Kogi State.
Responding, Kogi State Director, Importers Association of Nigeria, (IMAN) Special Task Force Idris Usman Abubakar noted that IMAN needs speed boats in some riverine areas in the state to stop the smuggling of arms.
