Mbah Unveils Drones, Patrol Vehicles to Strengthen Security in Enugu

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State on Monday inaugurated a new fleet of hi-tech security equipment and patrol vehicles procured by the Enugu State Security Trust Fund (ESSTF), in a renewed push to bolster the protection of lives and property across the state.

Citizen FM reports that the items unveiled at the Government House, Enugu, include two state-of-the-art drones, 10 Hilux patrol vans (4×4), 40 motorcycles, 400 bulletproof vests and 400 bulletproof helmets.

Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Mbah praised the ESSTF Board of Trustees for their commitment to enhancing the state’s security architecture.

He said the fresh acquisition would complement the administration’s existing investments such as the state-of-the-art Command and Control Centre, AI-powered surveillance cameras, and over 150 Distress Response Squad vehicles equipped with AI-enabled cameras.

He emphasised that no development ambition could thrive without safety.

“Our administration’s achievements and vision would amount to nothing without the security of lives and property,” he said.

“Security challenges are local. As a state, we must play our part. These items will be deployed to ensure Enugu remains the safest state in this country.”

Mbah disclosed that violent crimes had reduced by more than 80 per cent under his administration but maintained that the government would continue to intensify efforts in partnership with the Federal Government.

“You may have scored 90 per cent in security, but one breach can undermine everything. Criminals are constantly looking for opportunities. That is why we must keep investing in equipment that helps us prevent, detect and swiftly respond to incidents,” he added.

Representing the ESSTF Chairman, Ike Chioke, Trustee Nath Udeh said the new equipment would further weaken criminal networks and support the governor’s drive to maintain Enugu as the safest place to live and invest.

He noted that improved security had already triggered a surge in economic and social activities.

“Flights into Enugu are now fully booked if you don’t secure your seat early. Companies are choosing Enugu for retreats, meetings and strategic sessions. These are signs that something good is happening here,” he said.

Providing technical insight into the equipment, the Executive Secretary of ESSTF, Engr. Chinedu Ani, said the two Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) drones are designed to operate in any terrain without the need for a runway.

He said the drones have a range of 100km, a cruising speed of 120km per hour and are equipped with multiple cameras including thermal imaging, night vision and daytime zoom lenses.

“The cameras are AI-enabled and can conduct advanced analysis. With these drones, we have added capability to track suspects, vehicles and persons anywhere in the state,” he said.

A Trustee of ESSTF and Anglican Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Rt. Rev. Onyekachi Onyia, described the investments as crucial, given Enugu’s strategic role in the security of the South East and the old Eastern Region.

“We know the consequences of leaving Enugu porous. If terrorists break through Enugu, the South East is finished. It will not end well,” he warned.

The newly launched equipment is expected to be immediately deployed to enhance surveillance, rapid response and counter-crime operations across the state.