So many illegal ammunition at the disposal of criminals and bandits in the country ―IGP

THE Inspector-General of Police, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris has said there are so many illegal ammunition in the hands of so many armed bandits and criminals posing serious security challenges in the country.

This was even as he warned state governors against arming security outfits in their states.

He made this known during the  Northern States Stakeholders Security Summit, with the theme, `National Building: Security Challenges and the Need for Inclusive Approach’, held in Kaduna on Wednesday.

This according to him this trend must not be allowed to continue especially as the 2019 general election is fast approaching.

Thus, he said, he had directed police commissioners in the 36 states and FCT  to mop up of illegally acquired arms and ammunition, saying, at the expiration of the 21-day ultimatum, any person found with prohibited firearms will be arrested and prosecuted.

Commenting on some of the security challenges facing the country, he advised governments to establish grazing ranches for herdsmen men before enacted grazing law.

“It is when grazing ranches are established that herders can be arrested and punished for rearing and grazing on the open places.

“Doing so, I am of the opinion that it will make the law acceptable by all the parties concerned and other critical stakeholders in that all-important sector.

“It will do us good if we avoid the hasty formulation and implementation of such laws across the country in the interest of peace and unity.’’

On farmers and herdsmen clash, he noted that the crisis did not start with the inception of this administration, saying, “It must, however, be noted that Framers/Herders clashes did not start with this administration, yet this administration has taken steps to end the menace.

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He also spoke on how the police were making efforts to end kidnapping in the country, saying that the police had from December arrested over 200 kidnappers, armed robbery and cattle rustling suspects in various parts of the country.

“Over 50 AK 47 Rifles, 20 English made pistols, two 5MG Rifles, over 1000 rounds of AK 47 Rifles and other assorted pistols ammunition were recovered from them.