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The Anambra State Vigilance Group, AVG, has taken decisive steps to tackle the issue of kidnapping and armed criminals by embarking on a comprehensive mission to reclaim all illegally obtained firearms within the state.
Yesterday, Nweke Nweke, the Director of Media and Publicity for AVG, announced that their first step would be to distinguish between lawful and unlawful firearm owners before proceeding with the retrieval process, focusing primarily on those possessed by unauthorized individuals.
In his statement, Nweke Nweke emphasized that the utilization of pump action guns is strictly forbidden, and only AVG members and private security guards who are duly registered with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps or approved by the state government are authorized to possess and operate such firearms.
Nweke’s words: ‘Only the AVG is allowed to bear firearms like pump action in Anambra State. It is a prohibited device, but you can see some unidentifiable individuals and groups using them.’
‘AVG, with other joint security teams, will embark on mop-up action to identify people or groups using prohibited firearms and recover them from the public. Genuine users will be checkmated.’
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‘It has been discovered that most of these hoodlums who are causing security challenges in the state and all over Nigeria, acquired firearms illegally. “We are calling on the public to assist the security with relevant information. We are also calling on individuals or groups with genuine reasons to possess arms to identify with relevant authorities for better.’
Nweke expressed his appreciation for Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s efforts in transforming the state into an attractive destination for local and international investors, making it a flourishing and livable place for everyone.
He assured that the AVG, along with other security agencies, would spare no effort in ensuring the safety and security of the environment, aligning with the vision of the current administration.
‘Our governor is not relenting on his campaign promises to make Anambra State liveable and prosperous. We are solidly behind the administration’s resolve to secure the environment for investors, residents, and others’, he said.
Nweke appealed to the public to foster a constructive relationship with the AVG, recognizing them as crucial contributors to the advancement of society, and refraining from casting unfounded doubts or negative opinions on their actions.
‘We are committed to the protection of lives and property in Anambra State. If you see us on the highway or streets, kindly give way for our convoys. Don’t stop us. Do not try to obstruct our movements or operations.’
‘Do not call us unprintable names as we try to serve you better. If you stop us, it can make us not meet up with our targets,’ he added.
By removing illicit firearms from circulation, there will be a significant reduction in the threat posed by armed criminals and enhance the overall security of the state.
