Delta Police, Bankers Strategize on Security Ahead of Yuletide

By Diafa Doubra,

As the festive season draws closer, the Delta State Police Command has taken proactive steps to strengthen security across financial institutions in the state. On Tuesday, September 23, 2025, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, convened a strategic meeting with the Bankers’ Forum in Asaba to review security measures ahead of the yuletide period, traditionally marked by increased movement of people and heightened criminal activity.

The session, which had in attendance the Chief Security Officer of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Asaba, Mrs. Evangeline Patrick, and thirty-nine heads of commercial banks operating in the state, focused on safeguarding banks and their customers during the busy season. Represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, CP Abaniwonda emphasized the importance of early preparation and stronger collaboration between banks and security agencies.

DCP Adejobi urged banks to adopt advanced security measures, including the installation of modern and functional CCTV cameras, to help security operatives effectively monitor activities within banking environments. He also stressed the need for banks to remain vigilant, considering Delta’s boundaries with Edo State and other regions, which could serve as entry routes for criminals.

In her remarks, Mrs. Patrick of the CBN commended the Police Command for its foresight in initiating the meeting. She disclosed that the CBN maintains strict policies, including withholding cash disbursement to banks that fail to engage an adequate number of armed policemen for specie escorts. According to her, this measure is part of broader efforts to ensure the safety of both funds and personnel.

Reassuring stakeholders, DCP Adejobi reiterated the command’s unwavering commitment to crime prevention, stating that the meeting was just one of several proactive steps being taken to guarantee a safe and secure yuletide season. He added that the police would continue to collaborate closely with stakeholders to deliver a crime-free Ember period across Delta State.

Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, signed off the statement, affirming the command’s resolve to intensify operations and remain ahead of criminal elements.