Akwa Ibom CP threatens shutdown of hospitality harbouring criminals 

By Emmanuel Ntekim 

The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, has causioned the Hotel Owners Association and the management of hospitality businesses in the state against harbouring criminal elements, vowing to raid and shut down any establishment found harbouring criminals.

The CP in a press statement issued by the commands Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, on Monday, after a stakeholders meeting with representatives of the hospitality and tourism sector in Uyo.

The strategic meeting, which was convened by the police command, brought together key players, including the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria, Nigeria Hotels Association, Restaurants and Bars Association of Nigeria, Hotel Owners Association, Association of Professional Chefs of Nigeria, Hospitality Consultants and Managers Association of Nigeria, and the Airport Taxi Association of Nigeria.

CP Azare during the meeting emphasized strong need for collaboration between law enforcement and the hospitality industry to combat crime.

He revealed that intelligence reports had identified hotels and hostels as potential hideouts for criminals operating within the state.

It is your responsibility to ensure that your premises are not used as safe havens for criminals. Any hotel found harbouring or shielding such individuals will leave us with no choice but to raid the premises and shut it down for investigations, Azare said.

He urged hotel owners and managers to be vigilant, monitor the activities of their guests, and maintain accurate records of individuals checking into their facilities.

The commissioner further highlighted the importance of early reporting, advising stakeholders to alert the nearest police station upon noticing any suspicious activities or individuals rather than waiting until crimes are committed.

He assured the stakeholders that the police were not out to disrupt their businesses but to ensure peace and security in the state.

Security is a collective responsibility. We must work together to maintain the reputation of Akwa Ibom as one of the most peaceful states in the country, Azare added.

Responding, the President of the Hotel Owners Association in Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Daniel Udoh, expressed appreciation for the police commands proactive approach to ensuring security.

Udoh assured that hotel owners would take immediate measures to strengthen security within their premises, including keeping accurate guest records, closely monitoring activities, and promptly reporting any suspicious individuals or occurrences to the police.

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