The Kogi State Police Command has ordered all holders of licensed guns and firearms in the state to return them to the state police command headquarters not later than July 22, for revalidation.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr Sola Collins Adebayo, an Assistant Superintendent of Police, announced this in a statement issued in Lokoja, the state capital, on Friday.
“The holders of the guns and firearms should report with their firearms irrespective of whether the licence was obtained from the state or any other states, and irrespective of their renewal status.’’ It said.
It explained that the exercise had become necessary in view of the proliferation of firearms and the recent surge in cases of armed robbery, kidnapping and other violent crimes associated with the use of firearms in the state.
The statement further warned that any holder of firearms that fails to heed the directive, but later found to be in possession of firearms of any calibre would be made to face the law.
“The case will be treated as being in possession of unlawful firearm and such person will be made to face the full wrath of the law, “it added.
The statement also urged the public to cooperate with the police command in its efforts to rid the state of all forms of crime “by supplying it with useful information that may lead to the arrest of criminals in any part of the state.’’
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