The Anambra State Government has banned operatives of the state-owned security outfit, Agunechemba, from wearing masks while carrying out official duties across the state.

The directive was announced by the Special Adviser to Governor Charles Soludo on Community Security, Ken Emeakayi, during a meeting with commanders of the security outfit from the 179 communities in the state.

According to the government, the decision is part of efforts to promote transparency, accountability, and public trust in the operations of the security outfit.

Emeakayi stated that the use of masks by operatives often creates fear among residents and makes it difficult for members of the public to identify genuine security personnel.

He warned that criminal elements could exploit face coverings to impersonate operatives and commit crimes. He said the ban takes immediate effect and applies to all members of the security outfit except personnel involved in specially approved covert operations.

The security adviser further warned that any operative found violating the directive would face arrest and disciplinary action. He also cautioned operatives against mounting illegal roadblocks or engaging in activities capable of harassing residents and motorists, stressing that all security operations must be intelligence-driven and conducted professionally.

The Agunechemba security outfit was established by the Soludo administration under the Anambra State Homeland Security framework to strengthen local security and combat rising criminal activities across communities in the state.

Since its launch, the outfit has been deployed to support efforts against kidnapping, cultism, armed robbery, and other violent crimes in different parts of Anambra.

The latest move by the state government is seen as part of broader reforms aimed at improving discipline, professionalism, and public confidence in community-based security operations.