Date: 2016-12-23

As part effort to put in place safety measures for yuletide, Kwara State Police Command has announced prohibition of knockouts and other fireworks during Christmas and New Year celebrations.

The command also warned that stiffer sanctions await anyone caught or arrested for being in possession of the mini-explosives.

? A statement issued in Ilorin, Kwara State by the Command Spokesman, DPS, Ajayi Okasanmi quoted the Commissioner of Police, Olusola Amore, as warning potential troublemakers and miscreants to retrace their steps. The command also threatened to apply full weight of the law against those in habit of illicit drugs consumption and all acts.

It enjoined members of transport unions in the state to respect rights of other road users while plying minor and major highways to ensure hitch-free yuletide season.

The statement, which assured Kwarans of adequate protection during the festivities, also asked law abiding residents to report any suspicious character in their neighbourhood to the police for quick action.

"The Commissioner of Police Kwara state Police Command, Cp Olusola E Amore, on behalf of officers and men of the Command wishes to extend his warm greetings to all Christian faithful in the State as they celebrate the birth of Christ Jesus and the New year.

"He assures all peace loving people of Kwara State that the Command has put in place security measures to ensure a hitch free celebration, in this regard, it is expected that everyone cooperate with the Police.

"Consequently, the Command is using this available opportunity to warn potential trouble makers, miscreants and hoodlums to retrace their steps. Using of fireworks, bangers, knock-outs, and the likes stands prohibited. Transporters are advised to respect the rights of other road users.

"Alcoholism, usage of illicit drugs and all acts of lawlessness will not be tolerated, as the weight of the law will be made to bear on anybody arrested.

"Finally, the Command wishes to assure all law abiding citizens of their protection at all times, while members of the public are advised to report any suspicious character in their neighbourhood to the Police by calling these Phone numbers; 07032069501 and 08125275046, please", the statement said.