The Sokoto state Police Command has banned the use of fireworks, crackers and knockouts before, during and after the Yuletide period.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO) SP Muhammad Sadiq gave the order in a statement issued to newsmen in Sokoto on Monday.
According to Sadiq, the Command is not unmindful of the fact that these devices are explosives which by their nature are harmful and capable of disrupting the peaceful atmosphere via causation of unnecessary panic and tension in the state.
“As such the Command is appealing to the general public to desist from blasting these devices, while it enjoins parents and guardians to be wary of the movements and affairs of their children and wards,” he said.
He added that the State Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim ka’oje has ordered massive deployment of officers and men of the Command’s Tactical Teams.
“This includes State Intelligence Bureau (SIB) , Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD), State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Police Mobile Force (PMF) to Churches and prayer grounds across the State as well as recreational centres.
“Equally, men of Safer Highway Patrol have been deployed to ensure smooth flow of traffic in and out of the State and to guarantee safety of travellers.
He enjoined the general public are not to panic by heavy presence of security operatives in the state admonishing them to be security conscious and call the Command Control Room in times of distress through 07019699968 and 07068848035.
Sadiq further said that the Commissioner wishes all Christians a Merry Christmas and the general public a prosperous new year while guarantees the readiness to ensure hitch-free Yuletide season.
He equally warned all criminal elements to vacate the state or repent from crime commission, adding, “anyone found breaching the peace will be prosecuted in accordance with the laws of the land