BASG Deploys Over 2,000 Vigilante, Forestry Officers Against Crime

By Usman Walin Gungura, Bauchi

In his administration’s determination to strengthen security across forests and communities, Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has deployed over 2,000 trained operatives of the Vigilante and Forestry Security Service Agency.

The state Deputy Governor, Hon. Auwal Mohammed Jatau, who spoke during the passing out parade of the recruits on Saturday at Police training school Yalwa, on behalf of Governor Bala Mohammed, informed that the establishment and expansion of the agency was based on efforts to tackle security challenges, including banditry, illegal mining, and other criminal activities threatening public safety and environment.

He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the new operatives and conventional security agencies, stressing that joint efforts would enhance peace, security and stability throughout the state.

The Governor urged the personnel to conduct themselves with integrity and professionalism, warning that any act capable of eroding public confidence would not be tolerated.

Speaking earlier, the overseeing Commissioner of Internal Security and Chief Security Adviser to the Governor, retired DIG Sani Mohammed, explained that the recruitment exercise was aimed at deepening community participation in security management and improving the safety of residents.

In his remark, the State Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Musa M. Bulus, lauded the state government for its continued investment in security, noting that the newly recruited operatives would help boost surveillance and crime prevention at the grassroots level.

He further advised the officers to respect the rights of citizens, carry out their responsibilities within the confines of the law, and maintain close cooperation with the police and other security agencies in safeguarding lives and property in the state.