As part of efforts to curb the rising security challenges in Iseyin and Itesiwaju Area Command, the Area Commander, ACP Akande R. Adegoke, has held a crucial security engagement meeting with members of the Hoteliers Association and the Butchers Association of Nigeria.
The interactive session, which took place at the Area Command Headquarters in Isalu, Iseyin, was aimed at sensitizing the stakeholders on their strategic roles in intelligence gathering, crime prevention, and community safety.
Speaking at the meeting, ACP Akande noted that criminals such as kidnappers, bandits, terrorists, cattle rustlers, and armed robbers often take advantage of hotels and slaughter slabs to plan, coordinate, and facilitate their illegal operations.
He also expressed concern over reports of some butchers aiding and abetting cattle theft and rustling within the command.
According to him, “Many of these criminals live among us; they are not spirits. Some of them lodge in hotels to perfect their plans before striking. In some cases, even commercial sex workers provide cover and hideouts for them. We must therefore remain vigilant and proactive.”
The Area Commander called for a united front to ensure the safety of lives and property within the communities, emphasizing that security is a collective responsibility and not that of the government or security agencies alone.
“If you see something, say something,” he charged, urging residents and business operators to always share credible and timely information with security authorities.
ACP Akande advised hoteliers to install functional CCTV cameras within their premises, maintain proper guest records, and watch out for suspicious lodgers—particularly individuals such as herders who may not ordinarily require hotel accommodation.
He further encouraged butchers to distance themselves from any activity linked to cattle theft or criminal networks, warning that anyone aiding or shielding criminals would face the full weight of the law.
He assured the stakeholders that the police will continue to strengthen partnerships, deepen community policing strategies, and respond swiftly to actionable intelligence.
The meeting saw robust discussions, with participants pledging cooperation and readiness to support the police in securing Iseyin, Itesiwaju, and the surrounding areas.
