The Inspector–General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun on Thursday, February 8, assured that police officers are working round the clock to curb the menace of kidnapping, killings, and other criminal activities in the country.
He said that between December 2023 and February 2024, the force recorded one hundred and seventy-two (172) cases of kidnappings.
The IGP said: “Following our last meeting held on the 18th of December, 2024, I am pleased to report that substantial progress has been recorded, driven by the implementation of various strategies to address the rising wave of crimes in the country. Of particular significance is the launch of the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) in the FCT which has started to yield positive dividends as highlighted later in this address. Significant strides have also been made in maintaining law and order and combating criminal activities, including but not limited to kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, insurgency, and secessionist groups.
“Let us continue to support and uplift our officers, whose tireless efforts contribute significantly to the security and prosperity of our communities. It is important for us to address the concerns and fears of our fellow Nigerians regarding the security situation in our country. We understand the gravity of the challenges we face and the responsibility we bear in ensuring the safety and well-being of every citizen.
“I assure you that the Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its commitment to protecting lives and property, and we are actively working to address the security threats facing our nation. By fostering stronger partnerships with communities, leveraging intelligence-led approaches, and enhancing our operational capabilities, we are dedicated to confronting these challenges head-on and restoring peace and stability across the country. The safety of our people is our utmost priority, and we pledge to continue undauntedly to safeguard our beloved nation.
“During this period, we recorded thirty-five (35) cases of terrorism/secessionist attacks, three hundred and two (302) cases of murder, one hundred and eleven (111) cases of armed robbery, one hundred and seventy-two (172) cases of kidnapping, sixty-seven (67) cases of banditry, and fifteen (15) cases of unlawful possession of firearms.
“By executing some of the strategies and plans formulated at the last conference, the Nigeria Police Force arrested eight hundred and fourteen (814) suspects for their participation in various crimes, rescued one hundred and seven (107) kidnapped victims and recovered one hundred and sixty-six (166) various firearms, one thousand and seventy-four (1,074) ammunition and forty-one (41) vehicles”.
In the recent conduct of the run-off and by-elections across 26 states of Nigeria on February 3rd, 2024, the IGP said fourteen (14) suspects, including two (2) public officials, were apprehended across the affected States.
The police boss said the arrested suspects will be handed over to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) upon the conclusion of investigations for further actions in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022 (as amended).
He said: “The recent peaceful and successful conduct of the run-off and by-elections across 26 states of Nigeria on February 3rd, 2024, is another evidence of result-oriented proof of the strategic deployments of the Nigeria Police Force and resilient support for our democratic process. Whilst the majority of the elections proceeded smoothly, there were pockets of challenges encountered in some areas. In response, the Police took swift action, making several arrests to prevent the disruption of the electoral process. In total, fourteen (14) suspects, including two (2) public officials, were apprehended across the affected States. In Akwa Ibom State, a locally made pistol was recovered, while a suspected thug was lynched by members of the public in Kaduna State”.
The IGP frowned at the attitude of some police officers, which he said is compounding the negative image of the police in the eyes of people.
He said: “At this juncture, it is imperative for me to emphasize that in spite of the aforementioned achievements and accolades, we must not lose sight of the pervasive atmosphere of insecurity and the malfeasance of some of our men and officers. It is deeply regrettable that we have some unscrupulous elements in our midst who often conduct themselves improperly, thereby bringing the Force into disrepute.
These unscrupulous elements in our midst often disparage the good and hard work of the majority of us.
“I hereby state categorically that it is our responsibility to ensure better service delivery through the strict supervision of our men and officers. It is incumbent upon us to lead by example and leave no room for the negative elements in our midst to thrive.”