The Police has begun a nationwide special security operation, including counter-terrorism sweeps, detailed overt and covert surveillance, and intelligence-driven raids, to ensure crime-free Easter celebration.

The operation will also involve arms mop-up and special stop and search exercise.This is contained in a statement issued by CSP Frank Mba, the Force Public Relation Officer on Friday in Abuja.

According to the statement, personnel involved in the exercise would be drawn from the Bomb Disposal Squad and Counter-Terrorism Units.

Personnel would also be drawn from the Police Mobile Force and Joint Border Patrol Units, Force Intelligence Bureau, Police Dog Section and conventional police teams.

"They are expected to pay special attention to motor parks, airports, seaports, Border points, recreation parks, major markets and shopping malls, among others.

"The Inspector General of Police has ordered AIGs in all the Zones and Commissioners of Police in charge of states, to effectively deploy men and resources throughout the period of the exercise.

"In addition, these Commanding Officers have been directed to remain on ground and personally supervise the special operation throughout the Easter holiday and beyond,’’ the statement read.

It advised owners of unregistered vehicles to withdraw them from the highways immediately.

Owners of uncompleted buildings were also advised to keep them clear of undesirable elements and to report unauthorised persons inhabiting them to the police.

"Persons and companies operating vehicles painted in police colours or bearing police insignia are also advised to withdraw them from public roads forthwith.’’

Field operatives were directed to arrest and bring to book all violators, it said.