By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
A joint patrol carried out at the Kainji Lake National Park by Service Rangers in collaboration with security agencies and local vigilantes has led to killing of some bandits, while several illegal loggers were arrested.
Conservator-General, National Park Service, Dr. Ibrahim Goni disclosed this at a press conference in Abuja.
The CG said the raid on August 12 and 13, 2021 was carried out with personnel of these agencies with the aim to nip in the bud any suspected criminal activities.
He said “About twenty (20) number of illegal loggers who had different sizes of trucks, some articulated trucks, loaded with timber were arrested by the joint patrol team.
Goni said the arrested trespassers will eventually be prosecuted in accordance with the laws of the land.
“The collaborative efforts paying off and will effectively degrade the activities of bandits and other criminal elements within our Parks and the surrounding communities.
“These collaborations, which are a continuing exercise, would help to speedily restore peace and stability at our Parks, the host communities and Nigeria as a whole.
“It is worthy to note that this operation was successful because of the vital information shared to the Service and which is a crucial role every person in Nigeria should play.
“It is pivotal in decisively checking the activities of criminals.
“The Park, just like other forest reserves, has challenges such as illegal poaching, grazing, logging and fishing, and we have remained committed to attaining the desired status of a tourist destination for legal visitors.
“We will always evaluate, re-strategise and reinvigorate our ongoing operations to stem the tide of growing security threats around the Parks and adjoining communities.
He commended the Army, Police, DSS, Civil Defence, the vigilante and indeed the people of Borgu Emirate for their support and cooperation.
He solicited continuous support from host communities in the fight against illegal activities in the Parks and their environs.
“The Management of the Park is fully aware of the security situation of the areas within our legal jurisdiction and as such, we are closing ranks with other relevant stakeholders to curb the daunting challenges associated with our operations.”
