As part of efforts by Operation SAFE HAVEN to end criminality in the Southern part of Kaduna State, it has trained a total of 975 members of the Kaduna State Vigilance Group, otherwise known as KADVS.
The 975 KADVS operatives completed the training on Saturday with a colourful passing out parade at Kafanchan Municipal Stadium, in Jama’a Local Goverment Area.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, the Special Guest of Honour, Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN and General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Ibrahim Ali said the role of the vigilante is of utmost importance to the security agencies considering the numerous security challenges bedevilling some communities.
He, however, urged the citizens to work together and cooperate with the security agencies to flush out criminal elements from the communities, adding that operation SAFE HAVEN will continue to conduct its activities in line with the vision of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor.
The Commander further revealed that the trained Vigilantes will enhance security and contribute to local policing efforts of the state. He reminded the graduands to be guided by the code of conduct for vigilantes and discharge their duties diligently devoid of sentiments or favour.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Commander Sector 7, Operation SAFE HAVEN, Colonel Timothy Opurum revealed that the training of the local populace was in collaboration with the Kaduna State Vigilance Service, noting that, the trainees were drawn from eight Local Government Areas of Southern Kaduna state.
In his remarks, the Commander Kaduna State Vigilance Group, Brigadier General Umaru Mohammed Ibrahim retired noted that the training was necessitated by the shortfalls of personnel strength and the need for synergy amongst security agencies to combat security challenges.
