The Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, has announced a ban on the sale and use of fireworks during the festive season, directing intensified security operations across the state.
In a statement on Wednesday by the spokesperson for the command, DSP Ayanlade Olusola, Lawal — who addressed officers during his weekly lecture — raised concern over rising false alarms and staged kidnappings used to extort money, warning that the command would clamp down on perpetrators.
He expressed satisfaction with the readiness of officers statewide and ordered Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Commanders to tighten control of their jurisdictions to ensure a peaceful Yuletide.
The CP also mandated aggressive patrols, intelligence-driven raids on blackspots and deployment of covert operatives to boost intelligence gathering and early threat detection.
Announcing the fireworks ban, he said such items often cause panic and could be exploited by criminals to conceal their activities, stressing strict enforcement throughout the season.
Lawal appreciated the support of the Inspector-General of Police and directed DPOs to ensure smooth traffic flow, remove road obstructions and deploy personnel strategically for festive safety.
He urged motorists to remain vigilant, avoid speeding and prioritise safety, assuring residents and travellers that the police would secure highways, hinterlands and waterways throughout the celebrations.