The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, Dr Lanre Ogunlowo, on Thursday, February 6, went to streets within Abeokuta, the state capital, to launch a community engagement initiative aimed at strengthening relationships between the police and the public.
The initiative, according to the command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Omolola Odutola, is to create an atmosphere whereby state residents can freely interact with police officers, share security concerns and contribute to policing strategies for a safer society.
Aming the key areas visited by the Commissioner of Police were Panseke, NNPC, Sapon, Iyana Mortuary, Computer Market, and Lafenwa Market, where he interacted with traders, artisans, union members, market women and residents.
Thenewsbearer gathered that the interactions provided a platform for people to voice their security challenges, including concerns about ritual killings, land grabbing, drug abuse, cultism and vandalism by scavengers.
“During the engagement, CP Ogunlowo assured the public of renewed efforts in tackling crime and emphasized the police force’s commitment to professionalism and fairness.
“He acknowledged concerns raised by youths regarding police profiling and assured that the Command will take necessary steps to improve officers’ engagement with the public while upholding security standards,” the PPRO said in her statement.
She continued: “As part of this initiative, CP Ogunlowo has directed all Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) across the state to adopt a more people-friendly approach in their operations.
“This measure aims to improve information sharing, enhance security collaboration, and eliminate stereotypes between the police and the public.”
CSP Odutola said that the Command remains dedicated to protecting lives and property, while fostering a mutually respectful and cooperative relationship with the residents of Ogun State.
Residents were encouraged to engage with the police constructively, volunteer useful information, and support law enforcement efforts for a safer community.