35 vehicles, 100 bikes & 2 MFIVs flagged off
Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio has emphasized the role of public cooperation in improving policing in the state. Flagging off Nagaland Police’s newly-procured vehicles at Chümoukedima Police Complex on Thursday in the presence of deputy chief minister Y Patton, and several ministers, advisers and senior police officials, Rio urged the public to support law enforcement efforts for better crime management.
He pointed out that without public support, targeting criminals and tackling crime effectively became a daunting task, underscoring that public reporting and cooperation were essential for successful policing. He stressed that it was the duty of common man to support and coordinate with the police and administration for better. “Policing would be more effective with the public support,” he stressed.
He expressed Dwelling on the growth in the state, although with many bad ingredients, he shared his happiness at the state’s economic growth, particularly in private sector, and the rapid growth in urban areas such as Dimapur, Chümoukedima, Kohima, and townships such as Mokokchung, Mon, and Tuensang.
Noting that economic growth brought in many problems, particularly leading to increase in crime, he acknowledged that Dimapur, being the commercial hub of the state, was experiencing extortion, illegal taxation and other crimes. He assured that the state government was concerned about security of all citizens, the business community in particular.
He remarked that if Dimapur, often referred to as miniature India due to its diverse population and facing unique challenges, including extortion and other illegal activities, was disciplined and crimes checked, the whole state would become safe. He also emphasized equipping police with the latest technology to combat anti-social elements in urban areas. Commending the police for their dedication and effectiveness in maintaining law and order, Rio acknowledged the risks police officers took on a daily basis, praising them for their successes in tackling drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and other illegal activities.
“The state government has declared a war against drugs, and our police officers have made significant strides in this fight,” he noted. He also lauded the role of women in the police force, recognising their contributions along with their male counterparts.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting police personnel, citing that administration and policing were the backbone of the government. He also called for transparency in operations and encouraged the police to be cautious in their duties.
Out of the 35 vehicles that were flagged off, five were Scorpios and 30 Boleros, besides 100 motorcycles and two mobile forensic investigation vans (MFIVs). Dwelling briefly on the two MFIVs, Rio hoped that the vehicles equipped with cutting-edge technology would enhance forensic investigations and crime-solving capabilities.
He also hoped that the newly-procured vehicles would enhance response time of the police and their effectiveness in serving the public. Patton, who is also in-charge of Home, reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensuring safety and security of the citizens, claiming that the vehicles symbolized the dedication to responding swiftly and effectively to the needs of the people. He hoped that the vehicles would enhance operational capabilities, particularly in areas where mobility was crucial for timely intervention.
He observed that crime was continuously evolving, with new methods being adopted by the criminals, putting immense pressure on the police. He maintained that such dynamic and ever-changing scenario demanded the police to remain agile, well-equipped, and ready to tackle any challenge that came their way.
He hoped that the new vehicles would significantly bolster the police’s mobility and enable quicker response time, greater reach, and more effective patrolling. “In urban areas like Dimapur where population density and urban spread presented unique challenges, having a well equipped police force is not just a necessity, but urgent,” he admitted.
He praised Nagaland Police for always rising to the occasion and demonstrating exceptional bravery, dedication, and resilience in the face of various challenges. Dwelling on community involvement as a cornerstone of effective policing, Patton stressed that the support and cooperation of the public were vital to creating safe and secure environment, urging the citizens Nagaland to continue their partnership with the police.
“Your vigilance, cooperation, and timely reporting of suspicious activities play a crucial role in preventing crime and maintaining peace,” he exhorted. He assured that the state government was committed to providing all necessary support to the police, acknowledging that effective law enforcement required not just vehicles and equipment, but also continuous training, adequate resources, and a supportive environment.
He hoped that the new vehicles would also enhance capabilities to address specific issues such as traffic management, crowd control, and emergency response.
He called for remaining committed to the shared goal of a safe and secure Nagaland, urging the police and community to continue to work together, hand in hand, for creating an environment where every citizen felt safe and protected.
Earlier, the welcome address was delivered by DGP Nagaland Rupin Sharma while the programme was chaired by DIG (Training) Imnalensa, and vote of thanks by ADGP (law & order) Sandeep M Tamgadge.