From TCNEWS
Sunday Chukwudiegwu Mmeribe, the Abia State Commander of the Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Services (NHFSS), has mobilized his team to cleanse the forests of Umuahia, the capital of Abia State, from criminal elements.
Acting on a tip-off from local farmers, the team is targeting drug dealers, peddlers, and other criminals hiding in the area.
Commander Mmeribe, who spoke to our correspondent during their operation, revealed that his team has been tirelessly working since the yuletide season, striving to ensure a safe environment.
According to him, since 2016, they have been arresting criminals, kidnappers, and child trafficking syndicates, promptly handing them over to the appropriate security agencies within 24 hours.
He disclosed also the the Ikpa forest, located between Ubaha and Umuezeoma in the Oriendu Ancient Kingdom of the Ohuhu Clan in Umuahia North Local Government Area, has been significantly sanitized, revealing that previously, farmers, particularly women, faced harassment and assault, deterring them from tending to their farms.
Commander Mmeribe has appealed to Governor Alex Otti’s administration for functional vehicles and other resources to enhance their operations, lamenting the lack of support.
He said despite their struggles, the NHFSS has been collaborating effectively with other security agencies, including the NDLEA, and receiving valuable information from traditional rulers.
With over 2,000 personnel and division officers across the 17 LGAs in Abia State, Mmeribe said the NHFSS remains combat-ready to tackle the challenges ahead.
