Yuletide: Egbetokun approves nationwide deployment of police operatives to check crimes

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate deployment of police personnel to strategic locations, key areas, and identified hotspots nationwide to address crime risks during the festive season. 

This directive is aimed at tackling traffic and highway robberies as well as other criminal activities that tend to rise during the Yuletide period.  

In a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Olumuyiwa Adejobi, via the Nigeria Police Force’s official X handle, the IGP outlined the measures being taken to ensure the safety of lives and property during the celebrations.  

“The IGP has directed the immediate deployment of adequate personnel to strategic locations, key areas, and identified hotspots across all states. This initiative is aimed at curbing traffic, highway robberies, and other criminal activities during this period of increased mobility, public gatherings, and celebrations,” the statement read.  

The statement emphasized the IGP’s commitment to public safety and highlighted the proactive strategies being employed, including enhanced police presence on major highways and roads prone to criminal activities.  

“Security operatives will be positioned to deter crimes through increased police presence and visibility on major highways and roads prone to criminal activities, particularly highway robberies, which tend to spike during festive seasons,” the FPRO stated.  

Adejobi noted recent police operations that have yielded significant results. On December 10, 2024, officers from the Lagos State Command arrested four robbery suspects identified as Akeem Alabi, Adewale Sogbesan, Emmanuel Izeagbe, and Francis Okoko. The suspects confessed to being part of a syndicate operating around the Costain area of Lagos.  

READ ALSO: YULETIDE: Bauchi FRSC deploys 868 operatives for one month special operations

Similarly, on December 6, 2024, police operatives in Anambra State apprehended a suspected armed robber, Miracle Mwakaloi, in Awka. A subsequent search of his residence led to the recovery of three AK-47 rifles.  

The FPRO reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s (NPF) dedication to ensuring public safety throughout the festive season and beyond, assuring citizens that efforts are in place to allow for a crime-free Yuletide celebration.  

“The NPF remains committed to providing a safe environment during and beyond the Yuletide season,” Adejobi said.  

He also urged members of the public to cooperate with law enforcement officers and maintain vigilance, encouraging them to report any suspicious activities to the police or other relevant agencies.  

“The IGP further encourages citizens to remain vigilant and report all suspicious activities to the police and other law enforcement agencies,” the statement concluded.  

With these measures in place, the NPF is working to ensure a peaceful and secure festive season for all Nigerians.

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