By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has once again demonstrated the leadership’s commitment to the welfare of officers and their families, as he presented cheques totaling over N8 million to the families of 13 police officers who lost their lives while serving the nation.
The solemn event, which took place on Friday during the Command’s Monthly Meeting at the Police Headquarters in Awka, was organized to honour the gallant officers who paid the supreme price in the line of duty.
Among those remembered and honoured was the police inspector who was recently shot dead by an officer of an undisclosed sister security agency while on duty at a checkpoint along the Onitsha-Owerri Expressway near Danaks Fuel Station, alongside 12 other fallen heroes who were also honoured at the event by the CP.
According to a statement issued on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, explained that the cheques, which were presented under the Group Life Assurance and the IGP Family Welfare Schemes, formed part of the welfare initiatives of the Inspector-General of Police to provide support to the families left behind by officers who died in active service. He said the scheme also serves as encouragement for serving officers, reassuring them that their dedication will not go unnoticed and that the Force remains committed to their well-being.
In his remarks during the presentation, CP Orutugu expressed his gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police for his concern on the welfare of police personnel. While reconveying his condolences to the families of the fallen heroes, the Police Commissioner further urged them to make judicious use of the funds by investing in ventures that could help sustain their families and cushion the impact of their loss.
The meeting also featured security briefings from Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers across the state, during which the CP reviewed the security situation in their respective areas of responsibility and introduced new measures aimed at further strengthening law and order in the state.
CP Orutugu further reassured Ndi Anambra of the Command’s steadfast dedication to ensuring peace, safety, and security in every part of the state, promising that officers and men of the Command would continue to intensify their efforts towards protecting lives and property.
Among other highlights, the event also featured lectures delivered by various stakeholders to enhance the knowledge and capacity of the officers, including insightful presentations from a reputable insurance company, the officer in charge of the Police National Housing Fund, the officer overseeing pensions, ACP Anietie Eyoh who spoke on operational strategy, among others.
