2019 election: Army kicks off Operation Python Dance III in Borno

The Nigerian Army has inaugurated Operation Python Dance III to check criminal activities and ensure peaceful conduct of the 2019 general elections in Borno State.

Maj.–Gen. Bulama Biu, the Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division, made this known on Monday in Maiduguri at the inauguration of the exercise, NAN reports.

He said the operation was designed to disband criminal elements in the society as well as to ensure peaceful and hitch free elections in the state.

Biu disclosed that the exercise would be conducted in a collaboration with the Police, Department of State Security Service (DSS) and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

He said the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and other security outfits would also take part in the exercise.

“Events in the past indicated that any period Nigerians deserve peace and security, they are picketed by criminals and unscrupulous elements.

“Therefore, the army’s leadership implemented Operation Python Dance III to clear criminal elements in the society.

“The exercise is to check any attempt to disrupt peace by criminal elements and ensure peaceful conduct of the elections.

“I call on patriotic Nigerians to support the military to ensure successful implementation of the exercise,” he said.

Maj.-Gen. Benson Akinroluyo, the Theatre Commander, Operation LAFIYA DOLE, said that the exercise was designed to ensure peaceful conduct of elections, and not to witch hunt.

Akinroluyo commended the Borno Government over its support to the military in the fight against the Boko Haram insurgents and peace restoration process.