In a bid to tackle the escalating insecurity plaguing the nation, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, convened a crucial strategic security meeting on Thursday. The gathering brought together senior Police Officers, starting from the rank of Deputy Commissioner of Police and above, at the Peace Keeping Hall, Force Headquarters Abuja.
Among the attendees were 6 Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs) of Police, 38 Assistant-Inspectors-General (AIGs) of Police, 88 Commissioners of Police (CPs), and 5 Deputy Commissioners (DCPs) of Police. The monthly meeting aimed to foster collaboration and devise strategic measures to enhance the operational capabilities of the Nigeria Police Force in combating crime across the country.
While Addressing the gathering IGP Egbetokun revealed the gains made in the last 7 weeks which include arrest of 814 suspects rescue of 107 victims of kidnapping, recovery of 1074 ammunition and 41 vehicles among others.
The IGP emphasized the need for a collective brainstorming session to formulate strategic and vertical measures. These measures, he explained, were crucial in enhancing the operational strategies of the police force against the backdrop of the prevailing security challenges.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to reflect on the shortcomings identified during the last strategic meeting held seven weeks prior. Additionally, it served as a platform to showcase the achievements of the Force during the same period.
One key agenda item included a comprehensive review of plans for the upcoming Police week and award ceremony. The ceremony aims to honor police officers who have exhibited exceptional dedication and selflessness in the line of duty. Moreover, the senior officers deliberated on collaborative strategies to address the surge in crimes witnessed in recent times.
Highlighting the accomplishments of the Police, the IGP noted significant strides in the fight against banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities. Notably, the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) launched by the Police authorities led to the apprehension of a notorious kidnapper, Bello Mohammed, in Kaduna, found with a substantial sum of cash.
The IGP further reported the arrest of thirteen suspects allegedly involved in the recent killings of two monarchs in Ekiti State, South-West Nigeria. Additionally, the Rivers State Police Command, under the leadership of DCP Olatunji Disu, successfully rescued ten kidnapped victims following a distress call.
Commending the gallantry exhibited by the officers, the IGP urged others to emulate such dedication in their respective zones and command formations. He attributed these achievements to the proactive leadership of the Police management team, highlighting the tracing of 172 reported kidnapping cases and the subsequent arrest of the perpetrators.
The recovered items from the arrested suspects included 186 firearms, 41 vehicles, axes, cutlasses, camouflage uniforms, and other paraphernalia. The IGP reassured the nation of the Police Force’s unwavering determination to eradicate all forms of crimes, emphasizing their commitment to protecting the lives and properties of all citizens
Strategic Security Meeting