The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Aina Adesola, has set out means to re-engineer the security networks in the state for proper coordination and effective operations.

The CP, accordingly, convened a high-level strategic security conference with Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, Tactical Commanders and recognized security stakeholders across the State.

The Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Delta State Command, Asaba, SP. Bright Edafe, in a statement, indicated that in attendance were representatives of Man O War, Anti-Cult Units, the Nigeria Hunters and Forest Security Service, Tropical Human Rights, Anioma Security Watch, as well as various recognised vigilante groups operating within Delta State.

The PPRO said the meeting was convened to review the prevailing security situation, strengthen operational coordination and reinforce structured collaboration between the Police and community-based security organisations.

The Commissioner expressed appreciation to vigilante members and community security volunteers for their willingness to support the fight against crime. He acknowledged their contributions to grassroots intelligence gathering and community safety.

The Commissioner made it clear that the authority for any vigilante member to carry firearms rests solely with the Nigeria Police Force. He emphasised that no vigilante group has an independent right to bear arms without Police authorisation and supervision.

CP Aina Adesola further stressed that vigilante groups and affiliated organisations must not operate outside the purview of the Police.

According to him, "all security activities, including patrols and suspect handling, must be coordinated with the Divisional Police Officers within their jurisdictions to ensure legality and accountability".

The Commissioner issued a firm warning that vigilante groups have no right to detain any person. He stated, unequivocally, that it is illegal for vigilante members to detain a suspect under any circumstance. He directed that any person apprehended by vigilante members must be immediately handed over to the nearest Police Division for lawful processing.

The Commissioner also addressed concerns relating to membership integrity within vigilante structures. He cautioned that individuals who belong to confraternities or criminal associations cannot legitimately claim to fight crime. In his words, the devil cannot fight the devil. He urged all vigilante members to renounce any unlawful associations if they genuinely intend to support lawful security efforts.

CP Aina Adesola called for unity among the various vigilante and community security groups. He emphasised that fragmentation or rivalry weakens collective security outcomes. He appealed to all groups to prioritise intelligence gathering and timely information sharing with the Police as a critical tool in crime prevention.

The Commissioner reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property throughout Delta State and assured residents of sustained, coordinated and lawful security operations aimed at maintaining peace and public order.