03:50 PM CDT on Thursday, September 15, 2005

WWLTV.com

New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin issued a warning to the criminals and drug gangs who used to dominate certain parts of the city Thursday, saying they aren’t wanted back.

“I told the governor today that for the first time in a long time, the city of New Orleans is crime free and drug free and we want to keep it that way,” said Nagin.

Nagin said any criminals expecting to return to business as usual in New Orleans will be in for a rude awakening.

“Our police officers have even a stronger bond to this community than before,” he said. “And they aren’t taking any crap.”

Nagin said that in addition, there are Army members, National Guard and other special services to ensure order.

He detailed the list of ammunition they were carrying, saying that there were even some “bazookas” reserved for some people.

Nagin said anyone who thinks they can return and resume their criminal activity would have a “rude awakening.”