Hussaini Kafi in Kano
In a decisive move to address growing security concerns, particularly the threat of kidnapping in Shanono and Tsanyawa Local Government Areas bordering Kaduna State, the Kano State Police Command has convened a high-level stakeholders’ security meeting aimed at strengthening community-police collaboration.
The meeting, held on Wednesday, at Faruruwa Village in Shanono LGA, was convened by the Commissioner of Police, Kano State Command, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, PhD, in line with directives from the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on adopting a community-oriented policing strategy to tackle emerging security challenges.
This was contained in a statement on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa.
According to the statement, the initiative brought together key stakeholders, including traditional111 rulers, community members, heads of security agencies, and chairmen of five local government areas—Shanono, Bagwai, Tsanyawa, Gwarzo, and Bichi.
The aim was to promote dialogue, share insights into the local security landscape, and devise actionable strategies to safeguard residents from criminal elements, particularly kidnappers who exploit the porous borders with neighboring Kaduna.
During his address, CP Bakori reiterated the command’s commitment to enhancing security through grassroots engagement and intelligence-led operations.
He noted that recent incidents have made it imperative for communities and security forces to collaborate more closely.
“We are adopting proactive, intelligence-based strategies that involve direct community engagement. Our success relies heavily on the support and vigilance of local residents,” CP Bakori stated.
He further announced plans to intensify patrols and boost security presence in identified hotspots across the affected LGAs.
Chairman of Shanono Local Government, Hon. Abubakar Barau, commended the Commissioner for initiating the meeting and pledged full cooperation from the local government.
He called on residents to share timely and credible information with the authorities, assuring that community safety remains a top priority.
“This gathering is a testament to the Police’s commitment to peace and security. We, as a local government, will work hand-in-hand with the Police and other security agencies to address these threats head-on,” Barau said.
His sentiments were echoed by other LGA Chairmen in attendance, all pledging resources and cooperation to ensure coordinated efforts in fighting insecurity.
In his remarks, the District Head of Shanono, Dr. Bashir I. Muhammad, emphasized the importance of unity and trust between the people and the security forces. “Security is everyone’s responsibility. We must speak with one voice and act in harmony to protect our communities,” he said.
Alhaji Garba Bichi, Chairman of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) for Bichi Area Command, also lauded the Police initiative and promised the Committee’s unwavering support.
He urged the public to break the culture of silence and report suspicious activities.
“The success of this strategy depends on active public participation. We are ready to support the Police and ensure that our communities remain safe,” Bichi noted.
As part of his itinerary, CP Bakori also visited the Police Girls Secondary School (PGSS) in Shanono, where he assessed the existing security structures to ensure the safety of students and staff.
His visit was described by stakeholders as a strong indication of the Command’s commitment to holistic security in both public spaces and educational institutions.
The meeting concluded with a collective resolve to maintain open lines of communication and to create a robust intelligence network that would make it difficult for criminal elements to thrive.
Police spokesperson, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, said the Kano State Police Command remains committed to sustaining peace and security through collaborative efforts and community inclusion.
“The Police will continue to work with all stakeholders to safeguard lives and property. We appreciate the cooperation of the public and urge them to remain vigilant,” SP Kiyawa stated.
With the growing threat of cross-border criminal activity, especially in rural and remote communities, the Kano State Police Command’s proactive approach signals a renewed commitment to public safety and reinforces the importance of community-oriented policing in modern law enforcement.
