By Golok Nanmwa
JOS — The Plateau State Police Command has announced a temporary ban on the operation of commercial tricycles, popularly known as Keke NAPEP, in the Jos-Bukuru metropolis and other major towns across the state during the Eid El Maulud celebration.
The command said the restriction would take effect on Tuesday as part of measures to ensure a peaceful and orderly celebration.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, SP Alfred Alabo, on Monday, the command said the measure was aimed at enhancing security and public safety during the celebration.
According to the statement, the restriction is being implemented in collaboration with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to ensure a hitch-free Eid Maulud celebration.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ayodeji Faniyan, urged tricycle operators and members of the public to comply with the directive, assuring residents that adequate personnel would be deployed to major roads, prayer grounds and other public places.
He said the deployment was intended to maintain law and order before, during and after the celebration.
The CP also warned police personnel against using the temporary restriction as an avenue for extortion, directing members of the public not to give money to any officer who demands payment from apprehended tricycle operators.
“Any officer found engaging in such acts will be severely dealt with in accordance with Police regulations,” the statement quoted the CP as saying.
The command urged anyone confronted with an extortion attempt or other misconduct by police personnel to report the incident through the designated emergency lines.
It also appealed to parents and guardians to caution their children and wards against acts capable of disrupting public peace during the Eid Maulud celebration.
The command further clarified that the existing ban on motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, remains in force within Jos and Bukuru metropolis and other areas covered by the Jos Master Plan.
It advised residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities during the celebration.
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