In a last-ditch bid to reduce crimes, especially kidnapping and banditry in the country, the Nigerian Police Force has unleashed a special squad of 169 men and officers.
The Inspector General of the Nigerian Police, Kayode Egbetokun, said the unit aims to reduce the critical caps in the current policing system and reduce crime in the country.
Armed banditry, kidnapping and other organised crimes have crippled economies and social lives across the 36 states of the Nigerian federation, with Abuja, the country’s seat of power not spared.
Speaking during the squad launching ceremony at the Mobile Police Force Training College, Nasarawa, the IGP said it would reduce crime by providing rapid response and increase intelligence gathering, crisis negotiation and community engagement.
He said, “The creation of the Special Intervention Squad was borne out of a clear and urgent vision: to confront the most formidable challenges that beset our nation today — challenges like kidnapping, banditry, and other violent crimes that have sown discord and fear across various regions of our beloved country.
“These officers have been trained to navigate complex, high-stakes situations with precision, ensuring they are prepared to act swiftly and decisively in scenarios demanding expert attention. This comprehensive training programme encompassed a broad spectrum of subjects, including advanced tactical operations, intelligence gathering, crisis negotiation, and community engagement.”
The IG expressed his gratitude to His Excellency, David Green, Charge d’Affaires of the Embassy of the United States of America, Abuja, as well as officials from the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, other consular staff, the GS Foundation, and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, for their invaluable contributions to the Nigeria Police Force in its fight against all forms of crime in the country.
