The Ondo State Police Command has rolled out a statewide show-of-force operation as part of heightened security preparations ahead of upcoming political activities in the state.
The exercise, led on Tuesday by the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, involved senior officers, tactical commanders and other security formations deployed across key locations.
The patrol covered Idanre and Owo Local Government Areas, with the deployment of conventional personnel, Mobile Police units, intelligence operatives and other specialised squads.
The Command said the operation is intended to demonstrate operational readiness, reassure residents and deter individuals or groups who may attempt to disrupt public order during the political season.
During the visit to Idanre, the police commissioner paid a courtesy call on the Regent of Idanre, High Chief Akinloye Akinboni, where discussions focused on sustaining peace and strengthening community cooperation.
Lawal commended traditional leaders for their continued support for security efforts and urged them to further sensitise young people against violence and unlawful activities, particularly as political engagements draw nearer.
He reaffirmed that the Command would not tolerate any form of political violence, intimidation of voters, cult-related disturbances or acts capable of threatening public peace.
According to him, the show-of-force patrol also served as a clear warning to those planning to cause unrest, adding that the police remained fully alert, intelligence-driven and ready to respond decisively to any threat.
The Commissioner urged politicians, supporters and residents to conduct themselves peacefully and comply with lawful procedures throughout the political process.
He also encouraged the public to collaborate with security agencies by providing useful and timely information that could support preventive policing.
Lawal further assured that strategic security deployments had been activated across the state, including intensified surveillance, routine patrols and reinforcement of vulnerable communities.
The Command reiterated its commitment to neutrality, professionalism and strict adherence to the rule of law before, during and after the political activities.
It warned that anyone found involved in acts capable of breaching peace would be arrested and prosecuted.
The statement was signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh.