The Nigeria Police says that its operatives have arrested 10, 852 suspects within the period between July and October 2024.
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, made the disclosure on Tuesday during a meeting with Commissioners of Police and other senior police officers.
Egbetokun also disclosed that 369 kidnap victims were rescued, while 416 arms, 3,672 ammunitions and 178 vehicles were recovered.
According to him, recent statistics indicate a substantial decrease in crime rates in key areas including significant strides in combating violent crimes such as banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery and cybercrime.
On the forthcoming gubernatorial elections in Ondo state, Egbetokun assured that the police were adequately prepared for it, and urged all involved to replicate abd build upon the successes recorded in the Edo state elections.
He further emphasized the need for a robust security architecture, and for officers to perform their duties with impartiality and the highest level of professionalism.
“Our mission is to provide a secure environment where voters can easily exercise their democratic rights without fear or intimidation”, he said.
The IGP assured that the Police will continue to collaborate with other security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission and stakeholders to ensure that the elections are conducted freely, fairly and credibly, and that all voters are empowered to exercise their voting rights without fear of intimidation.
On security during the ember months, the IGP said patrols would be increased and other measures emplaced to ensure the security of lives and property.
Egbetokun, while noting that the Ember season is a time traditionally associated with heightened security challenges, stressed the imperative of vigilance, enhanced flexibility, and proactive policing becoming even more critical.
“Our approach should include increased patrols and intelligence-driven, community-oriented operations to ensure public safety throughout the holiday period.
“It is crucial that we intensify our efforts to secure all areas, particularly urban and semi-urban centres and major highways, and to collaborate with other security agencies and stakeholders to bolster security nationwide”, Egbetokun said.
