By Divine Sam

The Cross River State Police Command has ordered increased security surveillance and intelligence gathering in Ekorinim 1 Housing Estate, Calabar, following concerns over repeated burglary incidents in the neighbourhood where Governor Bassey Otu’s private residence is located.

The move comes after former Vice President Atiku Abubakar raised concerns about the security situation in the area, following a DAILY POST report highlighting residents’ complaints over persistent robbery attacks in the neighbourhood.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, CP Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, had directed a comprehensive security assessment of the estate to establish the reported incidents and identify possible security threats.

However, the police noted that preliminary inquiries conducted with the Divisional Police Officer in charge of the State Housing Division showed that the station had not received any recent formal complaints regarding the reported burglary incidents.

Despite the absence of official reports, the command said it would not ignore the concerns raised by residents, directing officers to strengthen intelligence gathering and closely monitor security developments in the area.

The Commissioner of Police emphasised that the safety of residents remained a priority, regardless of their social status, location or proximity to public office holders.

The command also appealed to residents who had experienced burglary attacks or possessed useful information to report such incidents to the nearest police station or contact its control room through 0704 177 7060 or 0705 335 5415.

Residents were further advised to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements and criminal activities to enable the police to respond swiftly.