By Karen James
Awka, the capital city of Anambra State, along with its surrounding communities, has witnessed a dramatic improvement in public safety and order, following the effective intervention of the Special Anti-Touting Squad (SASA). The squad, established by the state government to tackle rising cases of touting, criminal activity, and social disorder, has successfully restored calm and security to areas once known for lawlessness.
Notorious locations such as Ifite, Regina, Nibo, Amesi, and Agwu-Awka had previously been overrun by hoodlums and street gangs, making them dangerous and unwelcoming to residents and visitors alike. Today, thanks to SASA’s targeted operations, these communities have undergone comprehensive clean-up and enforcement activities aimed at eliminating all forms of touting and criminality.
Under the leadership of the Director of SASA, Hon. Monday Nwokoye, the task force has carried out sustained and strategic action to sanitize the affected areas. The results have been visible and far-reaching, bringing back public confidence and restoring the image of Awka as a peaceful and secure urban center.
Speaking on the success of the operations, Hon. Nwokoye affirmed the administration’s zero-tolerance approach to touting, crime and any disorder relating to touting. “There is no room for nonsense in Anambra State. We must get it right and make our state better again,” he said. He also called on citizens to take an active role in maintaining peace and safety by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities. “Say no to crime, and if you see something, say something,” he added.
Today, Awka and its environs stand as a testament to what effective governance and community cooperation can achieve. With safety and sanitation restored, the region is once again a safe and welcoming destination for business, leisure, and everyday life. SASA’s successful campaign has become a model for other areas in the state, reinforcing the importance of unity and strong leadership in the fight against crime.
