Ensuring full territorial security of a nation is paramount in any meaningful development.
These cowardly attacks orchestrated by gangs of armed bandits need to be uprooted from their hideouts. Until then, such frequency would continue to flourish most targeting innocent citizens, who labour to make a decent living.
Frequent armed attacks on communities used to be a common scenario. However, with the scaling-up of security patrols amid strengthening of the country’s security sector reforms, which encompasses a set of reform programmes aimed at addressing the loopholes and positioning the country's security sector to be in tandem with international standards, such operations are becoming a thing of the past.
However, the ugly menace is again rearing its ugly head and this time in the Nuimis. This unfortunate armed attack has left tongues wagging as the country cracks down on criminal elements in the land.
The attack once again highlights the need to intensify security especially along the country’s porous borders. Increased community policing and border patrol could play a part in curbing the growing threats.
People must understand that development and security are intertwined. No sustainable development is achievable in the absence of proper security. And people’s lives and properties should be protected at all times.
This also highlights the need for increased community policing especially in the provinces. Residents should also take ownership of issues relating to security. Timely reporting of unusual occurrences or movements or even people in neighborhoods to the security is key in that regard. This enables security and other stakeholders to make informed-decisions and act swiftly or avert looming threats.
Therefore, timely reporting of issues is critical in ensuring security. This also reminds us about the need for proper coordination as well as strengthening the capabilities of national security services.
We therefore strongly condemn the barbaric and cowardly act and stand in solidarity with our people, further calling on the government to ensure the safety and security of border communities. Let’s work towards strengthening community policing in our neighbourhoods.