Yuletide: I-G orders sustained raids of identified blackspots, others

The Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr Kayode Egbetokun has ordered Commissioners of Police (CPs) to sustain raids on identified blackspots, forests, criminal hideouts, and flashpoints ahead of the Yuletide nationwide.

The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin said this in a statement on Monday in Abuja.

Hundeyin said the I-G had directed the CPs to strengthen collaboration with other security agencies and community stakeholders to ensure holistic security coverage during the festive season.

He said the I-G had also, ordered the strategic deployment of police personnel and operational assets across the country to ensure a safe, peaceful, and crime-free Christmas and New Year celebration.

Hundeyin said the deployment was in line with the proactive security strategy of the force for the festive season.

“The I-G has directed all Zonal AIGs and State Command CPs to intensify patrols, visibility policing, intelligence-led operations, and confidence-building engagements throughout the period.

“Specialised units, including the Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Command, Intelligence Response Team, and Special Intervention Squad had been placed on heightened operational readiness.

“Others placed on heightened operational readiness are the Special Tactical Squad, Highway Patrol, Marine Police, and the Airwing,” he said.

He said the deployments would focus on places of worship, recreational centres, markets, parks, event venues, transport terminals, highways, critical national infrastructure, and other high-density public spaces.

According to him, additional patrol teams and surveillance units have also been activated to cover inter-state routes and major expressways to prevent road-related crimes, traffic disorder, and accidents.

He said the deployed officers had been charged to be firm but courteous in the discharge of their duties.

Hundeyin said the I-G had extended his felicitation to Nigerians at Christmas and New Year celebrations.

He said the I-G had enjoined the public to remain vigilant, celebrate responsibly, and report all suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through available emergency lines.

The police spokesman pledged the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to ensure that Nigerians enjoy the Yuletide season and beyond in an atmosphere of peace, safety, and security.